Case Spotlight: Rapid Telespecialty Ultrasound Interpretation Leads to Lifesaving Surgery
When Speed and Collaboration Save Lives
In emergency practice, timing can make all the difference. This case from an emergency hospital highlights how DVM STAT’s STAT diagnostic ultrasound interpretation enabled a timely surgical decision, ultimately saving a young cat’s life.
Case Summary
A 2-year-old neutered male domestic shorthair, presented for vomiting, lethargy, and inappetence persisting for several days. His clinical signs had worsened overnight, and ptyalism was noted following a small meal. Initial diagnostics at his primary veterinarian included radiographs, bloodwork, and outpatient care, but his condition failed to improve.
Upon presentation to the ER, bloodwork revealed mild hypokalemia (K 3.2 mmol/L) and respiratory alkalosis, consistent with ongoing GI loss and stress response. Concern for obstruction prompted a STAT abdominal ultrasound submission to DVM STAT Consulting for urgent review.
Findings and Interpretation
Within 1 hour, Dr. Kristin Welch, DACVECC, provided a STAT ultrasound interpretation. The scan revealed:
Severe gastric distension with fluid measuring up to 71×48 mm
Diffuse small-intestinal dilation (9–15 mm) with blurring of wall layering
A distinct intraluminal echogenic structure (37×7 mm) consistent with mechanical obstruction
Scant peritoneal effusion, likely secondary to intestinal compromise
While an intraluminal mass could not be entirely excluded, the imaging was most consistent with a jejunal foreign body obstruction. Immediate gastric decompression, fluid stabilization (especially potassium correction), and emergency exploratory surgery were advised.
Outcome
Acting on the DVM STAT interpretation, the ER team proceeded with surgery. Intra-operatively, a rubber foreign body was identified and removed from the jejunum. Billy recovered uneventfully, regaining appetite and energy within days.
This rapid diagnostic turnaround transformed a critical situation into a successful outcome. Without the Super STAT review, surgical intervention could have been delayed, significantly increasing the risk of perforation or sepsis.
Why It Matters
This case underscores how DVM STAT’s rapid diagnostic services expand access to specialty-level insight precisely when it matters most. By acting as a virtual specialty hospital, DVM STAT allows emergency and general practitioners to receive real-time board-certified interpretation—bridging the gap between uncertainty and decisive, life-saving action.
Key Takeaways
Turnaround Time: Super STAT ultrasound interpretation delivered within 1-4 hours
Outcome: Emergency surgery and full recovery
Impact: Specialty-level guidance that directly influenced case outcome and client satisfaction
DVM STAT Consulting provides 24/7/365 access to board-certified specialists across ECC, Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Neurology, Radiology, and more.
When every minute counts, our STAT services ensure you have the expertise you need exactly when you need it.