Medical Imaging in Veterinary Medicine

Medical Imaging in Veterinary Medicine

X-ray technology helped bring medicine out of the Dark Ages. Before the invention of digital imaging, surgeons would need to cut into a body to see what was
going on, but with the invention of x-rays and MRI technology, images of the inside of the body could easily be seen.

Digital imaging is still very useful today in both human and veterinary medicine. A CT scan can take thousands of pictures throughout the body at many
different angles. This technology is very helpful for checking things like broken bones, and cancer that has spread.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technology came about in the late 1970’s along with advances in computer technology and speed.
The first documented human MRI medical scan took place in 1977. MRI images are two-dimensional and do not use ionizing radiation.
An MRI creates an image involves placing the body in a magnetic field, which eliminates the exposure of radiation and cancer to the patient.

MRI technology was first used in veterinary medicine in 1980. Although very helpful to veterinarians, MRI machines were very large and expensive.
Most veterinary hospitals did not have the funds or space available to house a MRI machine. In order to get this technology to our furry friends in need,
the machines were placed special trailers and moved through the country on 18-wheelers. This allowed veterinary technicians to visit veterinary schools
and clinics and get the animals the care they needed.

Today, like most other computer technologies, MRI units have gotten much smaller, and less expensive. Now most veterinary hospitals have their own
imaging machines installed right inside their buildings.

Whether you are a human patient, four-legged furry friennd, one thing is for sure…imaging technology is a much needed aspect in the medical world.
And, without the cooling process of a chiller, these machines would not be able to do their job.

For more information on medical chillers, visit us at legacychillers.com.

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