For over two decades, Hallmarq has set the industry standard for distal limb imaging in standing horses. Our commitment to innovation and excellence has enabled us to develop cutting-edge MRI technology that delivers unparalleled soft tissue definition without the need for general anaesthesia. Unlike any other modality, our unique Standing Equine MRI captures intricate details, ensuring your equine patients receive the best possible care as safely as possible.
Our latest enhancement to that gold-standard modality is iNAV, designed to address one of the most persistent challenges in veterinary imaging: patient movement.
Introducing iNAV: precision in motion correction
We understand the challenges faced during equine imaging, especially with slight movements that can compromise the quality of diagnostic images. iNAV enhances the capabilities of our award-winning motion correction technology. Designed by Hallmarq – specifically for veterinary applications – iNAV significantly reduces the impact of limb movement during image acquisition, helping to maintain diagnostic integrity.
The introduction of iNAV has dramatically advanced magnetic resonance imaging of the standing horse and strengthened our confidence in diagnosing clinically significant injuries in the proximal limb.”
Natasha Werpy, DVM, DACVR
Implementing iNAV: how does it work?
iNAV is super easy to use! For Hallmarq customers already using standing equine MRI, iNAV is integrated into protocols for all anatomy other than the foot. FSE and STIR scans will have been replaced with iNAV versions. Particularly useful for imaging the tricky proximal limb, iNAV reduces the effects of patient motion.
- iNAV uses an echo in the FSE train to measure the position of the horse leg 3 times per second during acquisition
- This massive increase in sampling frequency results in better motion tracking and correction
- Motion is corrected as the image is processed with much greater accuracy
The result is a huge improvement in image quality making MRI in the proximal limb more diagnostic:
Here’s what Steve Roberts, Hallmarq’s Chief Technology Officer, has to say about iNAV and just what it can help achieve for your practice:
iNAV in practice: what our customers think!
“I have been playing with the updated iNAV. It is amazing! I was genuinely astonished by the quality of the T2W scans on a fidgety patient today. Based on the amount of motion, I was expecting the scan to look like mush, but it was beautiful. It looked better than the T1s! I’m very impressed with what you guys have done.”
Ben Anghileri, BVetMed MRCVS Clinical Director, Oakham Veterinary Hospital
“Conveniently my fetlock patient today is a repeat offender of moving during scanning, so I’ve tried out the iNAV Transverse images. First opinion is they are working amazingly!”
Anthony Hall, Imaging Technician and Registered Veterinary Nurse, B&W Equine Vets
“Standing MRI has considerably improved our assessment of lameness cases. In addition, the introduction of iNAV allows us to obtain images of exceptional diagnostic quality even for difficult areas, such us the tarsal region. In the present case, the fracture line and the area of bone oedema-like signal are clearly defined with minimal motion artifacts, which would not have been possible otherwise.”
Dr Claudia Fraschetto, DVM, DESV, Dipl ECVSMR, Clinique de Grosbois
Whether imaging the fetlock, tarsus, carpus, or high suspensory, you can rely on iNAV to preserve the detail and clarity required for accurate assessments.
Real-time results for enhanced care: with Hallmarq’s unique MRI software, operators and image readers benefit from stunning results visible in real-time on the acquisition screen. This immediate feedback facilitates quicker decision-making, allowing your practice to operate more efficiently.
Exclusive benefits at no additional cost: as part of our comprehensive Q-Care package, the integration of iNAV comes at no extra charge. We believe in making advanced technology accessible to all our customers without hidden fees. With Hallmarq’s Q-Care support programme, you can rest assured that you’re receiving top-notch service and support, enabling you to focus on what matters most – delivering exceptional care.
MRI and AI: fuelling the future
By listening attentively to customer feedback, and striving to continuously optimise our imaging systems, we help empower veterinary professionals by providing the tools they need to succeed. By choosing Hallmarq, you’re not just investing in advanced technology; you’re partnering with a company dedicated to innovation, that values your success and is committed to improving equine healthcare.
And standing MRI is not standing still… there’s more to come as we look ahead beyond 2025:
- Use of AI to further improve image quality
- Motion correction software improvements for other types of scans
- A larger variety of scans with reduced acquisition times
We continue to develop AI models that will denoise images, providing customers with reduced scan times and improved image quality. It’s an exciting project to work on, and we’re anticipating great things as it enhances overall efficiency.”
Simon Yeung, Machine Learning Engineer, Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging
Experience the future of imaging technology and enhance your patient care with Hallmarq’s innovative solutions.
