Medical procedures that were once limited to humans have become available for our four-legged friends as well. Advances in animal neurology, dentistry, imaging, surgery and rehabilitation have given veterinarians the opportunity to provide our pets with the same kind of medical services that are available to humans. Veterinarians are able to provide the highest level of care and treatment that is humanly possible using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computerized Tomography (CT), ultrasound, laser surgery, stem cell therapy, endoscopy (a technique for viewing internal organs with a fiber optic scope) and echocardiography (specialized form of ultrasound to view the heart).
Currently, veterinarians are working on a formal knee replacement retrieval program for canine patients. This will start the first tissue archive program for knee replacement patients as well as track potential causes for complications. In addition, for more than five years, researchers have been working to improve osseointegration options for animals in need of prosthetics using biomodeling techniques. Osseointegration is the connection of living tissue and bone with an artificial implant, a procedure similar to that used in dentistry with artificial teeth and allows the patient to retain the integrity of the limb.
Rehabilitation is widely used in the human field of medicine and is now an integral part of the recovery process for many animals battling various chronic pain, neurological conditions, arthritis, orthopedic issues and weight problems. Rehabilitation can also help improve your pet’s recovery from injury or surgery and can significantly accelerate neurological recovery.
Veterinary medicine has also seen advancements in the areas of dental technology for cleaning plaque, tartar and calculus from pets’ teeth that can prevent heart and kidney infections that originate in the mouth. Root canals and dental restorations are also now frequently performed in pets.
Through these advancements in animal medicine, as well promising new developments on the horizon, veterinarians will continue to remain dedicated to enhancing the quality of your pet’s life. Although many of these treatments are relatively inexpensive, some can be quite pricey. Pet health insurance is an excellent way to provide your pet with a lifetime of the best care available while saving you money along the way.
-- Dr. Bill Craig --