Why Pet MRI at Thonglor is Safer and More Accurate Than You Imagine 

Deciding to have your dog or cat undergo an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a significant decision for any pet owner. This article dives deep into the two most common concerns: safety and diagnostic accuracy. At Thonglor Pet Hospital, we provide comprehensive care that bridges these concerns—ranging from the use of Specialized Veterinary Anesthesiologists for anesthesia management to detailed image analysis performed by expert Veterinary Radiologists.

The Essential Role of the Anesthesiology Team in Pet MRI 

The primary concern regarding an MRI is the necessity for general anesthesia, which ensures the pet remains perfectly still throughout the scan (typically lasting 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the symptoms and breed). At Thonglor Pet Hospital, safety is our top priority:  

• Specialized Anesthesiology Team: Anesthesia is not administered by general practitioners but is managed by Specialized Veterinary Anesthesiologists who are experts in anesthesia and pain management.
• Case-by-Case Risk Assessment: Before anesthesia, a comprehensive blood test and cardiac evaluation are performed to assess risks and select the most appropriate anesthetic agents for each individual pet.
• Continuous Intra-operative Monitoring: Vital signs (Heart Rate, Respiratory Rate, Blood Pressure, and Oxygen Levels) are closely monitored throughout the entire procedure using medical-grade monitoring technology.

💡 Expert Tip: Providing a full medical history and a list of all current medications your pet is taking will help our anesthesiology team develop the safest possible care plan.

What Else Can an MRI Scan?

While MRI is renowned for its excellence in examining the brain and spinal cord, its high-resolution capabilities are also vital for diagnosing soft tissue abnormalities in other parts of the body that may cause pain or mobility issues: 

• Joint Issues and Ligament Tears: MRI is used to visualize damage to tendons, ligaments, and muscles surrounding joints (such as the knee or elbow)—details that X-rays or CT scans may not provide with sufficient clarity.
• Tumor Assessment: It helps define the precise boundaries of tumors infiltrating soft tissues prior to surgery or radiation therapy. This leads to more accurate treatment planning and significantly reduces surgical risks.

Immediate Steps to Take After Scheduling an MRI Appointment 

Once your MRI appointment is confirmed, taking these prompt actions will ensure the entire process goes smoothly:

1. Organize Health Records: Gather your pet's complete medical history, records of previous treatments, and a comprehensive list of all current medications.
2. Identify Metal in the Body: Confirm if your pet has ever had surgery involving metal implants or has a microchip. Provide these specific details to our team immediately upon booking, as magnetic fields can affect these items.
3. Plan the Fasting Schedule: Strictly adhere to the 8–12 hour fasting requirement (no food or water). Plan this window carefully around your appointment time to minimize your pet’s discomfort and ensure they are ready for anesthesia.

If the MRI Results Show Abnormalities, What Happens Next? 

Once the scan is complete, our team of experts will analyze the high-resolution images to provide a clear diagnosis. Your journey with us continues through these key steps :

• Multidisciplinary Case Consultation: Your pet’s MRI results are discussed among Neurologists and other relevant specialists to ensure the most effective and comprehensive treatment path.
• Personalized Treatment Planning: We develop a tailored treatment plan based on the findings—whether it involves anti-seizure medication, chemotherapy, or surgery for Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)—prioritizing your pet's quality of life above all else.

At Thonglor Pet Hospital, we believe that an accurate MRI diagnosis is the most vital first step toward restoring the health and happiness of your beloved companion.

Don't let concerning symptoms wait for an unclear diagnosis. Consult our specialists about the necessity of an MRI and schedule an appointment for the safest and most precise care today.

Call: 02-079-9999 (Thonglor Pet Hospital) and  Available at all Thonglor Pet Hospital branches.

Pet MRI at Thonglor Pet Hospital: Clinical Signs, Pricing, and Safety Protocols 

สพ.ญ. อรพรรษ เตชะวีรากร (Dr.Orapat Techaveerakorn)
Neurology and Spine Center