First-Ever Full-Body Equine Vet Imaging For Standing Conscious Horse
Prisma Imaging has successfully developed a new system for equine diagnostic imaging that addresses the shortcomings of current technology. Founded in 2016, Prisma developed a system that captures CT and radiographic images of the entire anatomy of a standing, weight-bearing and conscious horse. The advanced imaging capabilities established through Prisma’s research and development is different from anything available in the marketplace. The resulting system represents a game-changer for the overall effect on equine diagnostics and horse health care.
Other ventures have attempted to build equine CT systems but have been unable to provide a comprehensive solution to image the horse’s entire anatomy. Other devices are repurposed human medical CT systems. Most systems require that the horse be under anesthesia, representing a risk to their health and safety. In 2015, another venture’s attempt employed the use of robotics, but never developed a working system.
“Miscues in the industry demonstrate a strong demand for better equine CT imaging,” said Michael Silver, Prisma’s founder and chief operating officer. “Building next-generation imaging to benefit the veterinary industry and horse health is the core of Prisma’s mission.”
Prisma’s system is distinctly different and was developed to ensure every component meets high-performance specifications. Fully-documented, thorough testing by third-party experts have been performed on every aspect of the system.
Authorities on imaging have taken notice of the groundbreaking work of the Prisma team.
“The testing done with Prisma’s system demonstrates image quality which has eliminated the risks to achieve commercial readiness,” said Josh Star-Lack, principal scientist at Varex Imaging, author of over 100 papers and co-inventor of 27 patents.
According to Silver, their unique solution is facilitated by three major innovations:
1) Robotics.
2) Using two types of radiographic technologies.
3) A motion correction system to compensate for the movement of a conscious horse.
Prisma’s system has successfully performed in vivo imaging of live horse subjects and has demonstrated the efficacy of the system’s multiple technologies. Prisma’s CT image quality has proven to be on par with the top medical-grade CT systems.
“The CT images taken with Prisma’s system revealed all of the relevant anatomy and was virtually indistinguishable from those taken with medical-grade CT systems.” said Kurt Selberg, DVM, MS, DACVR, associate professor veterinary diagnostic imaging, Colorado State University and lead imaging practitioner at the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games in Tryon.
Silver projects that commercial installations of the system will begin in mid-2021. “Prior to purchase, Prisma will require the customer’s inspection and full satisfaction that all its capabilities are fully functional and meet or exceed the highest standards,” Silver said.
