Ultrasound Services
Echocardiogram with ECG
To ensure the highest standard of care, all echocardiograms are performed with concurrent ECG and reviewed by a board-certified cardiologist. Our comprehensive imaging studies utilize advanced modalities to evaluate heart structure and blood flow:
2D and M-Mode imaging
Color, Pulse-Wave and Continuous-Wave Doppler
By delivering accurate measurements, our detailed cardiology reports allow us to detect and track even small changes in cardiac disease over time.
Abdominal Ultrasound
Our abdominal ultrasound studies offer a detailed evaluation of internal organs and structures. To guarantee a high level of quality, all imaging studies are reviewed by board-certified radiologists through Antech Diagnostics. These evaluations allow for early detection and monitoring of internal health conditions.
On-Call Urgent Ultrasound Services
Dr. Graas is available on call Oahu-wide for urgent abdominal ultrasound and echocardiograms. While patients should always be stabilized prior undergoing a full ultrasound study, prompt diagnostic imaging can drastically alter treatment plans and significantly improve patient outcomes.
Ultrasound-Guided Tissue Sampling
Dr. Graas is available for ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration of abdominal masses and fluid.
Ultrasound-Guided Fluid Drainage
Dr. Graas is available for ultrasound-guided interventions to safely remove fluid from the chest, abdomen or pericardial sac. Our services include:
Urgent Interventions: Rapid stabilization via thoracocentesis and pericardiocentesis for critical patients.
Palliative care: Therapeutic drainage of chronic effusions to improve comfort and quality of life for patients with cancer or advanced heart disease.
*Available for in-hospital appointments only.
Booking: please fill out the submission form below to schedule an appointment. For urgent requests, or if I have no availability at the desired date/time, please email info@soundveterinarycare.com for assistance.
Availability: Dr. Graas performs hospital ultrasounds Sunday through Thursday 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM. Friday and Saturday availability is 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM. Dr. Graas is available the 1st and 4th Fridays of the month 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM.
Shaving: Patients will be shaved for both abdominal and echocardiogram studies. Exceptions can be made for Pomeranians who may not grow their fur back!
Fasting: patients should be fasted for 8 hours prior to all ultrasound studies, unless fasting is contraindicated for medical reasons. Water does not need to be withheld.
Sedation: Pre-medication with gabapentin and/or trazodone 1-2 hours prior to the appointment can be very helpful and often prevents the need for injectable sedatives.
Veterinary hospitals: please request owner approval ahead of time for fine needle aspirates.
Clinic Support: hospitals must provide 1-2 assistants (patient dependent) to safely restrain patients, a standard exam table, and a stool.
Supplies Needed: hospitals are responsible for providing consumables needed for procedures (abdominocentesis, thoracocentesis, pericardiocentesis, FNAs, or cystocentesis). This includes isopropyl alcohol, needles, extension sets, suction, sterile gloves, shavers and sterile scrub.
Equipment Provided: Dr. Graas will bring all core imaging equipment, including the ultrasound machine, probes, augmented lead ECG, ultrasound gel and a dedicated echocardiogram table.
Ready To Schedule?
Pet owners can request an in-home visit online. Veterinary hospitals can book through the hospital scheduling. For urgent requests, Email Dr. Graas for a faster response.