The Institute for Clinical Veterinary and Animal Science, to which the Animal Hospital is affiliated, aims to set the standard for the diagnosis and treatment of family pets by utilizing the latest knowledge and technologies. One of their recent initiatives is the implementation of Ergonomic Lighting for use in diagnostic imaging. The difference is tangible, according to the department.
— Our goal is to provide accurate diagnoses - as precise as possible, says Ulrik Westrup, a senior veterinarian who is the first to complete a four-year advanced training in diagnostic imaging in the field of veterinary medicine.
Ulrik Westrup is employed at the Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging department at the Animal Hospital, which is Denmark's only veterinary department solely dedicated to the field of diagnostic imaging. The staff here specializes in technical and diagnostic imaging, with their responsibilities including teaching veterinary students, servicing the Institute for Clinical Veterinary and Animal Science, the Hospital for Production Animals and Horses, other institutes within the Faculty of Health Sciences, as well as conducting research. At Ulrik's request, Ergonomic Lighting has been installed in the imaging and ultrasound room, significantly improving the working conditions.
The smallest detail can make all the difference
—Previously, we sat in darkness, examining images on the screens in the imaging room. It was not conducive to sitting like that all day. The same applied to the ultrasound room, where we use the screen while examining the animals. Through veterinarian Lars Bistrup, I learned about Ergonomic Lighting, which uses coloured light to counteract screen reflections and optimize image quality. With the installation of Ergonomic Lighting, we have improved our working conditions. Typically, we don't get as tired after a day in front of the screen. It is more pleasant and prevents us from damaging our night vision. In this department, it is crucial that we look at the images properly. The smallest detail can be decisive. There are several factors at play. The quality of the images naturally plays a role, as does the professional approach. I have chosen to specialize in diagnostic imaging in order to elevate the level of expertise, and in that endeavour, the lighting fits well, explains Ulrik Westrup.
European expertise in veterinary imaging
In the Diagnostic Imaging department, not only regular digital X-rays are used. New techniques such as CT, MRI, Ultrasound, and Fluoroscopy are extensively utilized. The department takes great pride in producing professional material to ensure the diagnosis is clear and accurate. All examinations are carried out by the department's trained personnel and discussed in a forum for the radiologists. This represents a high level of European expertise, which also benefits veterinary students in learning the methodology of image interpretation and diagnosis. Also present in the imaging room is Eiliv Svalastoga, who has retired as a professor and Dr.med.vet from the Institute. Eiliv works on an hourly basis to diagnose based on the received image material and therefore also benefits from the improved lighting conditions.
About Ulrik Westrup
Ulrik Westrup graduated as a veterinarian in 1994 and subsequently worked at Varde Animal Hospital. In 2007, he was hired at the Institute for Clinical Veterinary and Animal Science, where he is currently completing his four-year specialist training in Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging. In addition to his work at the institute, Ulrik also serves as a mobile diagnostic imaging consultant, operating a mobile MRI and ultrasound clinic that provides services to various clinics in the capital region, as well as Skåne and Jutland.
About Ergonomic Lighting
Ergonomic Lighting is a revolutionary system that utilizes zone-divided coloured light to eliminate screen reflections and enhance image quality. The improved lighting conditions provide greater precision and clarity, significantly enhancing the working environment. This ultimately leads to less fatigue and increased endurance for the staff members. Ergonomic Lighting can also be effectively used in situations where image description is done on screens. The red and violet lights optimize and highlight contrasts and contours on grayscale screen images, commonly used in the field of diagnostic imaging.
Benefits of Ergonomic Lighting:
- Reduces screen reflections, providing a clear view
- Enhances image quality, optimizing visibility and detail
- Improves overall precision and results
- Increases endurance and reduces fatigue
Ergonomic Lighting can be applied in various settings such as operating rooms, endoscopy rooms, diagnostic imaging departments, reading rooms, control rooms, scanner rooms, intervention rooms, ultrasound, bronchoscopy, as well as delivery rooms and related areas.