Diagnostic imaging has a new option with a lower radiation dose

A new diagnostic imaging solution with a lower radiation dose than earlier iterations was launched at the 2026 Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX) in Orlando, Florida, by IDEXX. The ImageVue DR50 Plus Veterinary Digital Imaging System for veterinary practices in the US and Canada also combines high-definition imaging that relies on artificial intelligence (AI).

“It's actually an upgrade from the original [ImageVue] DR50 that we launched to the market in 2016, so we've had that panel in the marketplace now for going on upward of 10 years,” Ryan Bees, senior diagnostic imaging specialist for IDEXX, said in a dvm360 interview at VMX. “This [ImageVue DR50 Plus] is the next generation of the DR50. It still [has] the same features and benefits of the DR50, but [DR50 Plus] is an even a lower-dose panel…. Not only are we gathering images at a lower exposure, but we're also improving image quality.”

Minimizing exposure to radiation is important for the health and safety of the veterinary team, and notably for women of childbearing age.1 Radiation exposure can be harmful in large amounts and frequencies by damaging DNA in cells, which can cause mutation that leads to cancer and other serious health issues, according to University of California, Davis researchers.2

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"As a veterinarian, providing timely, accurate diagnoses while ensuring patient and staff safety is my top priority,” Jean C. K. Pitcairn, DVM, CVC, CCRP, CVCHM, CHPCP Integrative Oncology, medical director of Chase Farm Veterinary Hospital in Dartmouth, Massachusetts, and a consultant for IDEXX, said in a news release.

According to IDEXX internal data, ImageVue DR50 Plus offers a 25% lower radiation dose than the company’s ImageVue DR50 system currently in use by many practices, as well as a 60% lower radiation dose than other industry imaging solutions. “The ImageVue DR50 Plus system marks a new chapter in diagnostic imaging, delivering exceptional image quality and advancing radiation safety,” Jay Mazelsky, president and CEO of IDEXX, said in the release. “As the lowest-dose system to date, it expands clinical insight, reduces retakes, and streamlines the imaging workflow from capture to consult through seamless integration with our software and telemedicine solutions.”

When connected to IDEXX’s existing end-to-end imaging workflow and telemedicine solutions, the new imaging system also assists veterinary professionals with faster and “more confident” decision-making. “The ImageVue DR50 Plus system…[is] allowing us to make confident decisions and focus on quality care. The images are high quality, and I can show pet owners exactly what I see, building trust through transparency,” Pitcairn said.

Bees also noted that the panel size for the ImageVue DR50 Plus is larger than previous iterations of the system. “Historically, we've offered panel sizes at 14-by-17. With the [ImageVue] DR50 Plus, we are bringing to market a 17-by-17 option. [It’s] good for larger dogs, like mastiffs—real big, deep-chested dogs—where we don't have to get that additional image,” he said.

The ImageVue DR50 Plus system is now available to veterinary clinics. Bees said practices interested in obtaining the new imaging solution should contact IDEXX or their local representative for the company.

For more industry news and coverage of VMX, visit dvm360’s dedicated conference page to view articles and videos: dvm360.com/conference/vmx

References

1. Lowest-dose radiology meets next-level imaging: IDEXX launches ImageVue DR50 Plus. News release. IDEXX. January 15, 2026. Accessed January 18, 2026. https://ir.idexx.com/news-events/press-releases/detail/404/lowest-dose-radiography-meets-next-level-imaging-idexx-launches-imagevue-dr50-plus
2. Hinds T. Veterinary technician-led team advances radiation safety research. UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. December 18, 2025. Accessed January 18, 2026. https://www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/news/veterinary-technician-led-team-advances-radiation-safety-research