Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging enjoyed a successful event at American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP)2022 tradeshow and conferencethis month, showcasing the company’s Standing Equine leg CT machine (slCT).The system, along with Hallmarq’s Standing Equine MRI (sMRI), is designed specifically for the equine veterinary market with a focus on both affordability and environmental impact. This includes low energy consumption, and for the sMRI, a zero-helium solution. Hallmarq prioritises Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles as part of its mission to improve the lives of animals, and of the people who care for them.
“We are a team of people who care deeply about the planet and the people and animals that share it with us. As such, we strive for the highest level of sustainability we can achieve, without, of course, compromising the production of the high-quality images that our customers have come to expect,” said Richard Smith, COO at Hallmarq.
Accessible imaging
The unique slCT machine offers an easy walk-in, walk-out system for the horse, utilizing cone beam CT (CBCT) that revolves around the limb to capture a 3D image set in 1 minute. The system is supported by over 20 years of experience in standing imaging and motion correction reconstruction software, to deliver superior 3D images. With safety paramount, the Hallmarq slCT does not restrict the limb of the horse and is specifically designed for easy and immediate exit by horse and handler, should the need arise. For both equine systems, general anesthesia is not required and with the low-dose radiation of the CT and the low-field MRI, handlers are able to remain in the room.
CBCT offers many benefits when imaging the distal limb of the horse. In addition to returning high-quality diagnostic images, CBCT is more energy efficient than fan beam CT (FBCT). The Hallmarq slCT system is designed for ease of use, enabling fast imaging of the patient. The process from start to finish typically takes around 15 minutes. This product, which aligns with Hallmarq’s policy of being safe, effective, and affordable, offers an accessible solution for almost every equine practice with a modular option available where clinic space is at a premium.
“In line with the increased expectations of our industry, Hallmarq continues to be more socially responsive.”
Mick Crosthwaite, CEO at Hallmarq
Zero-Helium MRI
Hallmarq is world-renowned for bringing the gold standard in diagnostic capability to equine clinical practice in the form of their Standing Equine MRI (sMRI). In addition to its efforts to provide high-quality imaging, Hallmarq is conscious of global events and trends that may impact the industry going forward. The ongoing helium shortage threatens the industry’s access to liquid helium crucial for cooling most MRI magnets. The innovative sMRI has always been helium-free and still captures superb images for a more accurate diagnosis from the hoof up to the carpus/tarsus. The patented design includes a unique open, thin-poled, zero-helium magnet, equine-specific RF coils and award-winning motion correction software to optimize image quality in the standing sedated horse. It also features veterinary-specific software including an array of MRI scan options with equine-specific imaging protocols for efficiency and ease of use. To address costs to the veterinarian, horse owner and environment, Hallmarq has developed an affordable business model with optional module installation and lower power requirements than a standard high-field MRI, all without reliance on helium.
Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Compatibility
In bringing together the different aspects of its sustainability program, Hallmarq works to manage its business risks and the impact the company has on the world and its customers’ communities. Hallmarq accomplishes this approach through its ESG principles.
“In line with the increased expectations of our industry, Hallmarq continues to be more socially responsive. Our supply chain, manufacturing methods, shipping policies and employee health and safety measures are regularly reviewed to manage our business risks and positively impact the communities in which we operate,” said Mick Crosthwaite, CEO at Hallmarq.
It’s not just the equine market that has Hallmarq’s attention, however. Lessening the financial, environmental and supply chain risks associated with traditional helium-based MRI systems is being addressed with the recent introduction of their Zero-Helium system for small animals. Their new Small Animal 1.5T MRI is the world’s first veterinary-specific machine that does not rely on the scarce resource, helium, to cool the MRI magnet coils. Designed from the ground, up with animal anatomy and veterinary users in mind, the system increases access to diagnostic care for small animal patients.
To learn more about Hallmarq’s ESG program, visit: https://hallmarq.net/about/environmental-social-and-governance-esg/.
About Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging is an award-winning global leader in innovative diagnostic imaging solutions. As an industry specialist, Hallmarq focuses on providing safe, convenient, accurate and affordable advanced imaging for practicing veterinarians worldwide. With a shared passion for improving animal health, Hallmarq has partnered with customers since 2000 to support over 300,000 equine scans in 25 countries. The company’s exclusive dedication to the industry and the exceptional support provided to Hallmarq customers through the unique Q-Care program have resulted in increased access to advanced imaging systems for equine and small animal practices around the globe. Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging Ltd. has offices in the U.K. and North America. Find out more at www.hallmarq.net and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
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