Press release -
Hallmarq Introduces Next Generation Motion Correction Technology
ACTON, Mass. (June 28, 2013) – Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging introduces next generation
motion correction technology that will help generate even clearer images with their standing
equine MRI machines. Over the past few months, the company has started implementing its new
software in all of its standing equine MRIs throughout the world.
The next generation software, which took nearly 18 months to develop, is designed to better
manage changes in the shape of the joint during scanning. Changes to the joint shape can occur
as the horse shifts its weight distribution while standing. In addition, the software also improves
the resolution of the final corrected images and allows for motion-corrected, high-resolution
scanning.
“Overall, it is a robust change to the motion correction methods and image resolution of the
higher joints we scan,” says Steve Roberts, operations and technical director. “It is particularly
noticeable when scanning the fetlock joint. Higher resolution permits the visualization of finer
structures.”
Rolling out the new software in May to its partners, Hallmarq will ensure that every site with one
of their standing equine MRI machines receives the new software at no cost to the clinic.
“It is important to us that all of the sites around the world are using the same technology,” says
Dan Brown, BVSc, MRCVS, business development director at Hallmarq. “In addition, we want
to ensure they we’re all trained on the system and understand the benefits of the new technology. For us, this isn’t just a business, it’s a partnership and we want to be certain all of our partners
are comfortable with the system.”
Investing a significant amount of time and money into the system, Hallmarq says the changes
will allow veterinarians to see the finer areas of the joint without putting the horse at risk.
Because Hallmarq offers a standing MRI, the horse is simply walked into the machine. This
eliminates the need for general anesthesia, which can lead to death in almost one in 100 healthy
horses, making the system much safer than traditional MRIs.
“This new technology makes the use of one of our systems even more seamless,” says Brown.
“Not only does it improve the tolerance of the system for patient movement so the staff has less
to worry about, it also allows for even better images for diagnosis.”
Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging is the pioneer of species-specific MRI diagnostics, being the sole global manufacturer of MRI systems specifically designed for companion animals and horses. The Hallmarq team has decades of experience in the design and manufacture of global clinical, research and industrial MRI systems for a range of applications. The company initially revolutionized the diagnosis of equine lameness with the development of the only standing MRI for horses before applying its expertise to small animal diagnostics. Established in 2001, Hallmarq's mission is to improve the safety, accuracy and cost-effectiveness of MRIs, making them affordable and profitable to veterinary clinics worldwide.
