Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses magnetic fields to look inside of your pet without using x-rays or surgery. A computer uses the magnetic signal to create a highly detailed picture of your pet’s internal body tissues.

MRI has been used in human diagnosis for years; however, MRI was not widely available in veterinary medicine until relatively recently. With this technology, veterinarians now can more accurately determine the cause and location of many animal diseases. Many veterinary facilities use low field scanners which may miss subtle, but significant, changes, which is why we use a high field MRI scanner like those used at human hospitals.

Our radiologists are passionate about their field and have gone through several years of advanced training to learn how to interpret MRI studies. Along with our radiologists, our MRI technicians help to provide the best diagnostic service available in San Diego. Our team is well trained in anesthesia and uses state-of-the-art anesthetics and anesthesia monitoring equipment to ensure the safety of your pet.

• Brain Evaluation (CSF Tap/ Seizure Evaluation package is available)
• Spinal Imaging for Disc Disease and Tumors
• Surgical Planning for Soft-Tissue Tumors and Muscle Tears
• Abdominal Organs for Intra-Abdominal Masses

Because they must remain completely still, MRI studies require patients to be anesthetized prior to the procedure. All pets are closely monitored by our licensed and highly-trained staff both during and after the procedure.

We want you and your pet to be as comfortable as possible with the MRI procedure. If you have any questions about the MRI process, we are always just a phone call away.

We go to great lengths to ensure the safety of all of our patients. This is why we require that a full blood panel be done prior to undergoing anesthesia and we only use the safest anesthetic possible in order to minimize patient risk and anesthesia time. We only employ certified imaging technicians who closely monitor each patient both during and after the MRI study. Furthermore, the radiologist is always on site to oversee the procedure and ensure that it is done in the shortest amount of time possible.

Before your scheduled MRI, please make sure to:
• Refrain from giving your pet any food for 12 hours before drop off.
• Check with your veterinarian or the VICSD staff before stopping any medication prior to the procedure.
• Call the office at (858) 634-5430 to double-check on your appointment time and get any last-minute questions answered.

While the MRI itself has no side effects, the after effects of anesthesia can last 12 to 18 hours following the procedure. Our staff may ask that you wait a few hours after returning home to feed your pet and will go over instructions with you when your animal is discharged to you.

We are the highest quality, lowest cost veterinary MRI provider in the San Diego metropolitan area, with four board-certified radiologists and professional licensed technicians who set the standard for animal care. Rather than itemizing costs for MRI, we feature an MRI package that includes

1. Patient evaluation prior to, during and following the procedure.
2. Anesthetic induction (catheter, induction drugs, endotracheal tube and anesthetic monitoring)
3. Anesthesia throughout the entire procedure (anesthesia for up to 90 minutes, monitoring, and body temperature support).
4. MRI
5. MRI interpretation by a board-certified radiologist. A neurologist interpretation can be included for a nominal fee.
6. Day hospitalization

(Contrast is not included but adds a minimal cost.)

If you would like an estimate for your pet’s procedure, please give us a call at (858) 634-5430. We will be happy to go over your specific MRI package and any costs associated with it.