Acquario di Genova and the Agfa CR 30-X Digitizer

The veterinary team at the Acquario di Genova in Italy needed a solution that would allow thorough X-ray examinations with good image quality where the animals are kept, while ensuring complete safety for the staff. Before, the animal patients had to be sedated and transported to other facilities for imaging. Implementing the Agfa CR 30-X computed radiography solution has been a major breakthrough for the aquarium's veterinary activities.

Highlights

• The CR 30-X is compact, portable and flexible, and can be adjusted to the various species and sizes of sea creatures.
• MUSICA image processing reveals the smallest details in all kinds of species, from a tiny seahorse to a 300 kilo dolphin.
• The possibility to adapt the images reduces the need for retakes and for restraining the animal again.
• The NX workstation allows a smooth workflow and fast sharing of images with colleagues.
• No processing chemicals are required, making it an environmentally friendly solution.

Challenge

The Acquario di Genova cares for more than 500 species, and imaging animals such as sharks, or animals that are especially large or very small, presents particular challenges. Transporting the animals for imaging was both stressful and dangerous.

Solution and results

With the CR 30-X, the veterinary team can X-ray even the most delicate patients in their enclosures without causing them distress, and with certain precautions can even use the system in a wet environment. The system has been used to diagnose conditions such as egg retention in fish and reptiles. Being able to share results instantly with colleagues around the world enables a prompt and correct diagnosis, and treatment can start immediately.