Revolutionizing Equine Diagnostics: A Look at the Asto CT Equina® Standing CT Scanner
Pioneer Equine Hospital in Oakdale, California, has taken a giant leap forward in veterinary diagnostic technology, introducing the cutting-edge Asto CT Equina® Standing CT Scanner. This advanced piece of equipment is designed specifically to cater to equine patients, offering incredible insights into the health of these majestic creatures without subjecting them to the risks associated with general anesthesia.
The Benefits of Standing CT Scans
Traditionally, diagnosing issues in a horse’s limbs, head, or neck required the animal to undergo general anesthesia—a risky procedure that could lead to complications. The Asto CT Equina® eliminates this need by allowing horses to remain standing and only mildly sedated during the scan, significantly enhancing patient safety and comfort. This development ensures that the diagnostic process is not only safer but also quicker, making it a game-changer in equine care.
How the Asto CT Equina® Works
The Asto CT Equina® utilizes a dual-axis fan-beam technology, which permits simultaneous imaging of a horse's limb pairs and its head and neck. Thanks to its wide 92 cm tapered bore and rapid scanning features—which take approximately 20 to 30 seconds per scan—the system is highly efficient. This capability allows for detailed images, critical in diagnosing subtle conditions like stress fractures and osteoarthritis that might evade traditional radiographic techniques.
The design of the Equina® scanner is robust and practical, created with the veterinary practice environment in mind. It is armed with collision sensors for safe use, is encased in sealed enclosures that adhere to the IP53 standard, and features a mobile operator console that is both user-friendly and ergonomic. This makes it ideal for the bustling, dusty conditions often found in veterinary hospitals.
Pioneer Equine Hospital: Leading the Way in Modern Diagnostics
Having been established in 1973, Pioneer Equine Hospital has built a strong reputation for its comprehensive equine services. The adoption of the Asto CT Equina® scanner demonstrates the hospital's dedication to integrating modern technologies to improve the quality of care for their patients. Dr. Becky Hicks, an equine surgeon at the hospital, along with operations manager Sara Cloward, both emphasized that this new addition amplifies their commitment to offering more accurate and individualized care for equine patients.
This investment is part of a broader trend in veterinary medicine, where facilities are increasingly opting for minimally invasive, high-precision imaging technologies. These ensure more reliable diagnoses and optimal treatment outcomes without endangering the animal's well-being.
Why This Matters
The integration of the Asto CT Equina® scanner is more than just a technological upgrade—it's a major step forward for the equine veterinary field. By providing faster, safer, and more detailed imaging solutions, this technology supports better athletic performance and quality of life for horses. Ultimately, it enhances the abilities of clinicians to quickly diagnose and treat musculoskeletal and soft tissue injuries.
Beyond the benefits to the horses, this technological advancement also represents significant improvements for the clinicians involved. The scanner’s ergonomic and mobile design ensures it aligns with the workflow and demands of busy veterinary settings, reducing the time spent on maintenance and thus increasing efficiency.
Conclusion: The Future of Equine Healthcare
The introduction of the Asto CT Equina® Standing CT Scanner at Pioneer Equine Hospital signifies a bold move towards the future of equine healthcare. As more veterinary facilities continue to adopt such advanced imaging equipment, we can expect a tangible improvement in the standards of veterinary diagnostics and treatments. This innovation is essential not only for advancing veterinary science but also for ensuring that horses receive the best possible care, echoing Pioneer's commitment to leading the charge in modernizing veterinary diagnostics.
For more insights into the capabilities of the Asto CT Equina®, or to learn more about Pioneer Equine Hospital, visit Asto CT's official website or Pioneer Equine Hospital's website.
