Meet MRI Manager Cami Glaff
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Manager Cami Glaff
Modern veterinary diagnostic technologies allow doctors to capture highly detailed images which can make a difference in having the most accurate diagnosis and determining the best course of treatment. Capturing these images, however, is another feat in itself. Imaging Technicians work to create a clear and comprehensive diagnostic profile by operating advanced technologies while keeping the patient still, calm, and comfortable. Spearheading management of all Palm Beach Equine Clinic patients for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is Camille “Cami” Glaff. A Jupiter, Florida, native, Cami has been an essential team member of PBEC since March of 2016.
Get to know PBEC MRI Manager Cami Glaff
What is your background with horses?
I have been riding horses since the time I learned how to walk. I grew up trail riding and began competing on the hunter/jumper circuits when I was around 10 years old. I pursued a career with horses by studying Business Management with a specialization in Equine Science at St. Andrews University in North Carolina. I represented my school in the saddle by competing on their Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) team throughout my four years there. I spent my first year after graduation as a groom and rider traveling to shows on the circuit. However, I discovered that I was more interested in the medical aspect of the horse industry, and I have been with PBEC ever since.
Have you always worked in the Imaging Department?
I joined Palm Beach Equine Clinic as the MRI Technician and quickly advanced to be the Manager of this department. I have also cross trained in other aspects of our imaging modalities so that I am able to properly operate our Nuclear Scintigraphy and Computed Tomography (CT) technologies as well. When I am not with an MRI or Imaging patient, I try to lend a hand by helping in other departments as needed.
What does a typical day as the MRI Manager entail?
When a horse is dropped off at the Clinic for an MRI, I perform a brief exam to note their vitals, place an intravenous catheter, and pull their shoes off. Once we are ready to begin the MRI, it is my responsibility to make sure we acquire the best images possible for our radiologist, Dr. Sarah Puchalski, to examine. The MRI is extremely sensitive to motion, and because of that I have to ensure that the patient is properly sedated, calm and comfortable so that we can obtain sharp images.
Once the horse is settled into position for whichever site is being scanned, I make slight adjustments to the unit’s magnet to make sure it is in the precise location needed. Depending on the site being scanned, such as the fetlock or suspensory origin, and the patient’s compliance, it may take anywhere from one to two hours to completely image the area. Once the scans are completed and are up to our standards, they are sent directly to our radiologist, Dr. Sarah Puchalski, who generates a complete MRI Report for the client typically within 24 to 48 hours. The hospital staff and I monitor the patient to make sure any sedation is properly wearing off to make sure they are safe to return home. It is always a team effort to make sure everyone is happy and that the horse is receiving the best possible care!
What aspects of your job do you most enjoy?
I enjoy being able to work with different horses each day. Every horse has its own unique reaction to being in a new place and being asked to stand very still throughout the scan. Being able to accurately read and handle each horse is a challenge that I appreciate.
I also find it rewarding to be a part of making a difference in a horse’s treatment plan. Acquiring the best possible images that may have the answers a veterinarian needs to make the most effective treatment plan.
When not at PBEC, what do you enjoy doing or where can we find you?
In my free time, I can usually be found outdoors. Whether I am going hiking with my dog Ryder, exploring new biking trails, or relaxing on the beach, I am always happiest outside.