Maximising the chances of a successful diagnosis and treatment is every Vet’s clear focus. However, setting up or updating a veterinary medical imaging facility can be a little more complex.
Imaging in veterinary medicine is a much more complicated affair than in general medical practice. To begin with, the anatomical differences between patients presents unique challenges and require individualised approaches. And then there is advancing technology to consider: what features and benefits will make diagnosis better for your patients and easier for you and your team?
That’s why we set out to make the buying (choosing!) process easy. X-ray technology is the oldest type of imaging in the industry, but it’s evolving in line with advancing technology.
With over 30 years’ experience of selling, servicing and supporting veterinary equipment across Canada, we have the knowledge and expertise essential to advising you on the best x-ray equipment for your practice.
Before we get into the detail of what type of equipment is right for you, we’ll take the time to ask about your practice:
- The size of the space available will influence the size of the machine you can install.
- Electrical supply is also important – many x-ray machines can’t be simply plugged in.
- Are you concerned about operational efficiency? Is the time taken to produce an x-ray a consideration?
- Do you need the machine to be portable or compact?
- Check that the machine meets any other specifications you’d like to have. For example, is the unit for CR or DR, and is a plate included?
Most importantly, will the system produce high quality images for all the types/sizes of patients your practice sees?
Considerations: Industry Insights
Budget
Working within your budget from the beginning is sensible. But it’s also worth considering how the x-ray machine will cost or save you money in operation.
Digital equipment, as you would expect, is slightly more expensive than conventional equipment, but as it is much faster and produces better imaging, you can save time and possibly also achieve a better diagnosis.
If budget is a concern, you can always look at retrofitting equipment, buying second hand or exploring finance options. We can help with that too.
Functionality
X-ray equipment is essential kit that will be used every day in your practice. That makes it one of the most important investments you can make.
So, as well as considering the key factors and the core purpose of your equipment, you should also take into account additional functionality. You want to consider those that make diagnosis easier and add value to how your team works.
Additional functionality might include software that takes measurements, a calibration blocks for precise equine hoof measurements, DR panel protective covers (Lock N Secure), or Imaging Tunnels for equine use.
Flexibility
You want your x-ray equipment to work as hard as you do. But it just isn’t practical to think that you can buy one piece of equipment that will screen every patient, from a cat to a horse.
However, you can invest in wireless DR panels which can be stored in bucky trays and used to image patients from convenient angles.
Finding the right fit for your clinic is important, that is why we carry computerized radiography (CR) systems and digital radiography (DR) x-ray systems for companion, mixed and large animal veterinarians. We also carry a special model for equine x-ray. Systems are customized to your needs, whether that be a stationary table or portable for out in the field.
Our Uveo brand x-ray systems for small, mixed, and large animal practices have all the cutting-edge features to keep you ahead of the game. These high-end x-ray systems are customized for your specific needs. When you work with Uveo you can expect attentive customer care, training, and support from our knowledgeable team, plus expert repair and maintenance services to preserve the value of your investment.
Software & Technical Support
There are two questions to ask about imaging acquisition software: how versatile is it and how easy is it to use? Your team should be able to quickly learn how to get the most out of the equipment in the most efficient way.
If your team finds the equipment difficult to use, that impacts on efficiency and scheduling appointments.
We have tried and tested all the software that comes with our systems. And we provide demo’s, training and support so you will never be stuck. Have questions? Want to see a demo? Book a consultation with a product expert to find the right fit and feel confident in your decision.
And then there’s aftersales: x-ray equipment can be a complicated piece of kit and if anything goes wrong, you need the right support, right away.
Our in-house service team is available and ready to service or support your equipment. With years of experience, they have the confidence to help support you. Services include equipment repairs, x-ray compliance inspections, maintenance, and training. Offering service all across Canada through phone, online or in-person support.
If you’re still not sure, get in touch! We have all the answers when it comes to choosing the right imaging system for your practice.
Intriquip is the leader for Veterinary x-ray equipment supplies in Western Canada. Our comprehensive suite of x-ray generators, x-ray tables, and image acquisition systems range from portable x rays to full 4-way float high-frequency table systems operating on HV or stored energy. We also offer veterinary dental x-ray systems for your clinic.
If you’re thinking about purchasing new x-ray equipment, read our useful guide to veterinary x-ray costs.