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Diagnostic imaging expert, Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging is building on the success of its previous systems with the launch of a new Zero-Helium system. The Small Animal 1.5T MRI is the world’s first veterinary-specific machine that does not rely on helium to cool the MRI magnet coils.
Initially available in the US, this new technology comes in response to growing concerns over helium supply. Extraction and usage of helium is quickly outpacing its natural synthesis, while observations from medical industry sources indicate that plummeting supply has caused helium prices to soar from $17 per litre in December of 2017 to between $65 and $70 per litre in June 2022.
For veterinary hospitals already using high-field MRI machines, or for those considering them in the future, reliance on the 1,500 to 2,200 litres of helium required to keep a standard MRI functioning may not be sustainable.
“Hallmarq’s Zero-Helium Small Animal 1.5T MRI system increases access to diagnostic care for small animal patients, while lessening the financial, environmental and supply chain risks associated with traditional helium-based MRI systems,” said Hallmarq’s Chief Technology Officer Dr. Steve Roberts PhD.
Evolutionary advancement
To produce images of the best quality, MRI scanners utilize liquid helium to cool the magnet to -460 °F. Reaching this optimum temperature lowers the electrical resistance and creates a super-conducting magnet. To achieve the same result without helium, Hallmarq’s Zero-Helium system uses a new conduction-based cooling system in a strong vacuum. This eliminates the need for helium, a quench pipe, an oxygen monitor, a conventional external chiller, or any additional power. Not only is this a more environment-friendly option, but it also reduces the upfront and ongoing costs of offering a veterinary MRI service to patients.
Hallmarq’s Zero-Helium 1.5T MRI signifies an evolutionary advancement. Using a clean-sheet approach, the Hallmarq Small Animal 1.5T MRI was planned from the ground up with animal anatomy and veterinary users in mind. The system utilises easy-to-use software, a V-shaped bed, a three feet long V-shaped spine coil and open-top coils that are specifically designed for animal patient positioning to support the high-quality images needed for an accurate diagnosis.
Another one-of-a-kind innovation includes an on-board radio frequency shield that eliminates the need for a complex and expensive radio frequency shielded room. Additionally, if space within your practice is scarce, trailer options are available that reduce construction costs and set-up time.
Hallmarq provides additional support and convenience for veterinary professionals with their award-wining Q-Care program, which includes installation planning, marketing services, remote monitoring, and a 99% uptime guarantee.
The Hallmarq Small Animal Zero-Helium 1.5T MRI and Q-Care are all offered as part of Hallmarq’s Imaging-as-a-Service model, which is a subscription-based service designed to make it easy and efficient to implement an MRI service. Hallmarq offers subscription add-ons like Remote Operator Service (ROS) that utilises licensed MRI Technologists experienced in veterinary imaging to remotely operate the Hallmarq MRI from another location in order to support on-site staff.
The result is a cost-effective service optimized to produce superior images on-demand, thus eliminating potential scheduling issues due to labor shortages.
For more information visit www.hallmarq.net.
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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