In September, we received an invitation from the veterinary doctors at the Adelaide Zoo and Monarto Safari Park. Initially, we were only going to discuss the optimal settings on their existing X-ray generator and to share our expertise from the dental and veterinary industry to enhance their techniques for achieving dental imaging on one of the rhinoceroses at Monarto.
The care, dedication, and love these amazing doctors and carers show to their animals was incredible to witness. We were soon inspired by their passion to help them achieve their objectives. During one of our long discussions on the methods used for radiology imaging, we set out on a mission to make it better. When working on any animal, the duration of anaesthesia is crucial for their recovery and to minimize potential risks—this is always the most important aspect.
Throughout our experience with veterinary doctors in private, corporate, small, and large practices, we found that they often get frustrated with CR systems. When combined with a low-power X-ray generator, it results in low image quality. We constantly hear that they don’t take many X-rays, or when they do, they may settle for somewhat adequate quality because it takes too long to get it right.
From my experience, I often hear about the frustrations with CR systems after our customers upgrade to the Rayence DR. I think it’s purely because we don’t know until we know. It usually took 5-7 minutes to process a single image. After getting the animal in the perfect position, you take the image and then, several minutes later, after the image is developed digitally, you find out that it’s not right. So, you reposition, readjust, and sometimes the X-ray generator may be underpowered, leading to longer exposure times. In those extra seconds, the animal takes a deep breath, the heart beats a few more times, and 5-7 minutes later, you realize that the generator needs adjustment. In addition, the developer machine is bulky, takes up significant space, and needs maintenance.
That’s in a typical practice. Now, imagine this scenario at a zoo. The patient rarely goes to the treatment room. The time under anaesthesia must be minimal. You need the stamina of an Olympic athlete because this will be quite an experience, and there will be lots of running between the patient and the developer. This incredible team of experts achieved great results, but at what cost?
We knew that the issues with CR systems were time, higher doses, and quality. We also knew that a more powerful generator would improve the quality and time of the exposure. We just needed to put it to the test. After many meetings and strategic planning, we were ready
One very early, crisp October morning, we set up at the Adelaide Zoo. We found ourselves backstage at the giraffe enclosure in a meeting with about 30 local and Australia-wide experts, all there for Nolean, a five-year-old giraffe with a troublesome foot. The meeting took maybe 15 minutes before we proceeded to execute our tasks. We were humbled by the individuals in this group, so much love, dedication, and expertise in one location, with zero ego, all for Nolean.
Jordan and I had our Sedecal 8kW portable X-ray generator ready. This generator, being dual focus and the most powerful portable generator in the field, gave us the best chance for precision and speed. We had our Rayence Wireless 14” by 17” DR plate to ensure crispy and clear images, our laptop, protective case for the DR, and lots of enthusiasm.
We waited for our turn while Nolean received her treatment. When the signal was given, we were ready. Veterinary doctors and assistants performed almost a yoga dance around the giraffe. Nolean was asleep with her head propped up on hay cushions, constantly massaged by another team to ensure perfect blood flow throughout this short procedure. This is where human flexibility was tested. Blocks of hay and anything possible were used to prop up Nolean’s feet for multiple X-rays. These needed to be taken quickly, at multiple exposures, from different angles, and on both feet for comparison.
We needed low dose, but high power, crisp images, rapid viewing, and flexibility. It took only two seconds to see the result between exposures, so the doctors could quickly assess the findings. We felt proud and privileged to contribute to this incredible experience. The doctors were able to continue their work without any delay, diagnosing the primary issue in no time. There were many hugs and high fives with the entire team. The setup worked flawlessly. All the planning and preparation resulted in a fantastic outcome. Most importantly, the doctors and carers achieved their goals with no compromise.
Soon after, we were honoured to assist in many more crucial procedures at Monarto Safari Park, where the Rayence DR plate was tested in the field. Throughout these experiences, we made great friends with the veterinary doctors and carers. It was incredible to be part of the team, helping these
amazing individuals achieve their goals. It was wonderful to see how, within minutes, the Rayence DR became an integral part of their diagnostic capabilities. Most importantly for Jordan and me, we saw the exact impact of what we do, how we could help them find solutions to issues and how this impacted their work.
Thank you, Adelaide Zoo and Monarto Safari Park, for allowing us to be part of your team. We hope that even now, with your new Rayence DR and the new shiny generator, we will get the opportunity to assist with another procedure in the future, even if it’s just behind the glass window, watching you use our new equipment in action.
Written by: Dominika Kozak – Sales & Equipment Specialist
