Central MA Regional VMA - With an Ultrasound Probe and a Microscope, Everything Is Possible

Join us for FREE dinner and 1 unit of CE (RACE approved) hosted by the Central MA Regional VMA and sponsored by BluePearl Pet Hospital Framingham.

Speakers: Erin McGowan, VMD, DACVECC and Alexis Zallas, DVM

September 24, 2026
7:30pm - 8:30pm
Bella Costa Restaurant 
147 Cochituate Rd.
Framingham, MA 01701

Attendance is free but attendees must be members of the MVMA.

This lecture explores the fundamentals of POCUS/Global FAST scan as set forth by Dr. Gregory Lisciandro, DVM, DACVECC. Attendees will be educated in terminology, ultrasound techniques, specific ultrasound findings, and interpretation. Practical utilization, hints/tricks, and incorporation into clinical practice will also be discussed. Specific case review provided. These ultrasound techniques are geared towards emergent situations or an extension of the standard physical exam as well as bridging the gap between patient history, bloodwork, imaging, and referral to a specialist. Additionally, we will discuss obtaining fluid samples for cytologic examination as demonstrated through case review. 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

1.       Fundamentals of POCUS for those who have never used a machine or to give a greater confidence in POCUS for those who already have a basic skillset.

2.       Framework to continue to utilize POCUS after this lecture/lab.

3.       Terminology, techniques, specific findings, and interpretation.

4.       Practical utilization, hints/tricks, and incorporation into clinical practice.

5.       Utilization of POCUS to bridge the gap between history, bloodwork, imaging, and referral to a specialist.

6.       Enhanced confidence in fluid sampling techniques with cytologic evaluation and case discussion.

What might they share with their fellow licensees about this program?

1.       Ability to teach others basic POCUS skills.

2.       Impress upon others the importance of POCUS and how it is an extension of the physical exam.

3.       Trouble shooting and critical thinking related to fluid sampling and cytologic evaluation.