Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm
Closed from 12pm-1pm for lunch
Welcome to The Veterinary Internal Medicine Group (VIMG), Miami’s trusted resource for expert veterinary diagnostic procedures, including abdominocentesis, thoracocentesis, and pericardiocentesis, provided by a board-certified specialist.
Abdominocentesis, thoracocentesis, and pericardiocentesis are specialized veterinary procedures that help diagnose and treat critical conditions in dogs and cats. These procedures safely remove excess fluid from a pet’s abdomen, chest cavity, or the sac around the heart.
This not only provides immediate relief but also enables your veterinary team to analyze the fluid for underlying causes such as infection, cancer, trauma, or heart disease. Timely diagnosis is essential for guiding the right treatment and improving your pet’s comfort and outcomes.
At The Veterinary Internal Medicine Group, we recognize how stressful it can be when a beloved pet is seriously ill. Led by Dr. Armstrong, a board-certified small animal internal medicine specialist, our team brings advanced diagnostic capabilities directly to the Miami community.
We combine medical precision with empathy, ensuring your pet receives personalized, compassionate care at every step. These procedures are performed with safety and comfort as top priorities.
When your pet is referred for a veterinary diagnostic procedure in Miami, our process is designed to maximize safety, comfort, and clarity for you and your pet.
We begin with a thorough evaluation to understand your pet’s history, symptoms, and current health status. You’ll stay informed at every stage, and our team will walk you through what to expect, including how we ensure your pet’s comfort throughout the visit.
Our veterinarians start with a detailed physical examination and review of your pet's medical history and symptoms. Dr. Armstrong prefers to involve owners during this stage to help alleviate anxiety for both you and your pet.
Diagnostic imaging, such as ultrasound or X-ray, may be recommended to pinpoint the exact location and amount of fluid. This ensures the safest and most effective approach for the procedure.
Once we confirm that a procedure is necessary, your pet is made as comfortable as possible. Fur in the targeted area may be shaved, and the skin is thoroughly cleansed. Sedation or local anesthesia is considered on a case-by-case basis to minimize stress and discomfort.
Our veterinary professionals use sterile technique and gentle restraint at all times. You are welcome to remain present during preparation when possible.
Using ultrasound guidance when indicated, our team carefully inserts a fine sterile needle or catheter into the appropriate area, abdomen, chest, or heart sac, to withdraw excess fluid. The amount of fluid removed varies depending on the clinical situation.
We immediately analyze samples in-house or send them to a laboratory for diagnostic testing. Removing the fluid often relieves your pet’s symptoms and allows for more comfortable breathing or movement.
After the procedure, your pet is closely monitored for any changes or complications. Our team provides detailed recommendations based on the fluid analysis and your pet’s overall status.
Dr. Armstrong will discuss findings with you in real time and answer all your questions. Our goal is to deliver prompt results and actionable recommendations to support the best outcome.
Procedures like abdominocentesis, thoracocentesis, and pericardiocentesis can be lifesaving for pets in urgent need. They bring immediate relief from dangerous fluid build-up and help diagnose the root causes of serious illness.
Veterinary diagnostic procedures in Miami are critical for pets showing unexplained symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or abdominal swelling, that could indicate underlying disease. Early, precise intervention helps prevent further complications and opens the door to targeted treatment options.
When performed promptly, these procedures enable pets to breathe easier, move more freely, and feel more comfortable, often within minutes.
Fluid analysis allows our veterinarians to detect conditions such as infections, cancer, heart or liver disease, and traumatic injuries, giving you answers quickly.
With a clear diagnosis, our team can recommend the most effective therapies for your pet, improving their outlook and long-term well-being.
Some signs indicate a serious medical issue that may require veterinary diagnostic procedures. If your pet is displaying any of the following symptoms, seek prompt veterinary attention:
Timely care can make all the difference. If your pet exhibits any of these signs, call The Veterinary Internal Medicine Group right away. Prompt veterinary evaluation is essential for the best possible outcome.
Most pets do not require these procedures unless they develop specific symptoms or underlying conditions. The need for abdominocentesis, thoracocentesis, or pericardiocentesis is typically determined based on medical urgency and your pet’s health status.
Some conditions, such as heart disease, cancer, or chronic liver disease, may require periodic evaluation and fluid removal. Our team will provide guidance on frequency and monitoring that matches your pet’s unique needs.
For personalized recommendations, The Veterinary Internal Medicine Group encourages ongoing communication. We’re always here to answer your questions and schedule timely rechecks when necessary.
When it comes to pet diagnostic procedures in Miami, The Veterinary Internal Medicine Group sets the standard for expertise and compassionate care.
Our team follows strict safety protocols using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques. Dr. Armstrong’s board-certified expertise ensures each abdominocentesis, thoracocentesis, or pericardiocentesis is performed with care and precision in Miami.
Most procedures are completed in under an hour. Costs vary depending on the complexity and sample analysis required. Please call (954) 263-3658 for personalized estimates.
Typically, no special preparation is required. Our veterinarians will provide any instructions prior to your visit and prioritize keeping your pet as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Abdominocentesis, thoracocentesis, and pericardiocentesis assist in diagnosing fluid-causing conditions such as cancer, infection, heart disease, trauma, and liver problems. Results from fluid analysis guide the next steps in your pet’s treatment plan.
Call (954) 263-3658 to schedule your pet’s appointment. Our location is 12968 Southwest 132nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33186. Flexible scheduling, including mobile and pop-up clinic options, is available.
Your pet’s health and comfort deserve expert attention. If you’re concerned about symptoms or need advanced diagnostic care, contact The Veterinary Internal Medicine Group today.
Call (954) 263-3658 or visit us at 12968 Southwest 132nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33186. Our mobile and pop-up clinic availability means high-quality specialty care is always within reach in Miami.
Our veterinary team is ready to answer your questions, provide guidance, and deliver compassionate expertise whenever your pet needs it. Your pet’s well-being is our priority, call us today.
