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Winner of two Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, Hallmarq MRI, has recently launched a new website www.hallmarq.net providing vets with everything they need to know about standing equine and companion animal MRI.
By designing and manufacturing MRI specifically for veterinary patients, Hallmarq has been able to reduce the barriers to MRI as a feasible option for veterinary practices. The new website busts the myths about use of MRI in a veterinary context, especially around areas such as costs and practicality.
While the new site is primarily going to be of interest to specialists, diploma holders, university personnel and veterinary hospital managers considering installing an MRI, first opinion vets will want to visit the site too.
“Technology is playing an increasingly important role in veterinary medicine. Clients expect to be offered the latest diagnostic tools, so it is important that we all understand what is available and understand the capabilities of MRI, ” says vet and Hallmarq CEO, Jos Belgrave.
Seeing the quality of images available from MRI really illustrates why some cases simply have to be referred in order to gain access to next level diagnostics. It also helps first opinion vets appreciate the capabilities of MRI and the benefits of referring pets to veterinary centres with high quality machines. For instance, it takes just 45 minutes to scan a full spine or 30 minutes to scan a pet brain using Hallmarq’s PetVet MRI.
The PetVet system is a high field MRI and therefore offers superior imaging. Vets will be able to see the image quality on the website where there are sharp images, even of difficult to view structures. There are some amazingly detailed views of canine and feline spines on the site that clearly demonstrate the value of MRI as a diagnostic tool. Image quality is also partly due to the PetVet’s pet-specific V-shaped bed that allows for dorsal recumbency of the patient, as opposed to human flat-bed systems.
The company’s standing equine MRI has revolutionised the approach to equine lameness, as horses need not be anaesthetised for the procedure. The PetVet is set to also change the paradigm in companion animals, allowing vets to access a machine that is designed with the safety and comfort of the animal, rather than human, patient in mind. As importantly, a new high field machine can now be affordable too.
PetVet has an integral RF shield meaning that a purpose built shielded room is not required – PetVet can even be installed in a modular building. The running costs of the machine are also lower as helium refills are not required.
But what makes PetVet truly affordable is the unique funding model which really demonstrates why Hallmarq won its high profile innovation award. The’ pay as you go’ system means practices do not have to pay for the MRI up-front, so it can be profitable from day one. More information is available at www.hallmarq.net.
Despite the increasing accessibility of MRI, the companion animal 1.5 Tesla PetVet system is still likely to only be an option for referral practices and universities. Southern Counties Veterinary Specialists is the first practice in the UK to install the high field PetVet MRI. The website provides information for vets at all levels of interest on both the companion animal PetVet System and the standing Equine MRI. Vets can request a visit to discuss MRI requirements by contacting the UK/European office on +44 (0)1483 877812 or via petvet@hallmarq.net.