X-ray Buying Tips

Getting a new X-ray system can be a daunting task; fortunately, we have taken the liberty of simplifying it for you! Here are some important things to consider before choosing and buying an X-ray machine: 1. Field of Application Aside from general diagnostic X-ray machines, there are other types of X-ray systems, depending on the field of application. These include angiography machines, mammography machines, dental X-ray systems, and C-arms, which are typically used in surgical procedures. Knowing which type you need is the first major step towards purchasing an X-ray machine. 2. Mounting Type The main component of an X-ray machine is the tube, which can be positioned or mounted in different ways: a. Portable X-Ray Machines b. Floor-Mounted X-Ray Machines c. Ceiling-Mounted X-Ray Systems 3. Patient Table The patient table is another important part of an X-ray machine. It comes in different types including (a) 2-way floating tables, which move in two directions; (b) 4-way floating tables, which move in four directions; (c) tilting and elevating tables (d) fixed or (e) portable tables; All of these could come with automatic exposure control, which limits the amount of X-ray exposure to patients. Each type of patient table offers a varied range of movements and procedures. Other than the structure, another important feature of the table is load capacity. Most systems are capable of handling body weights up to 200 kilograms; still, there are those that can withstand weights up to 300 kilograms and even higher! 4. Wall Bucky Stand The wall bucky stand is a part of the X-ray machine that moves the grid and holds cassettes or detectors during exposure. Just like the patient table, it comes in different types and features, including those with automatic exposure control, tilting capabilities, motorized movement, and even remote-controlled movement as optional features, depending on your preferences. Typically, the wall bucky stand comes with a grid that assists in removing scattered radiation. 5. Generator Type The generator type and power capacity depend on the kind of X-ray machine to be used. Typically, a portable X-ray unit operates on 5KW systems, whereas a stationary X-ray machine used in most hospitals requires 40KW to 80KW systems. When it comes to generator power specifications, the key thing to remember is that the more powerful the generator, the lesser the exposure time required. As a result, the number of radiation patients is exposed to is also lessened. 6. Acquisition System Generally speaking, this is the part of an X-ray machine that is responsible for acquiring and processing images. There are two major types of acquisition systems available nowadays: cassette readers, which are used in Computed Radiography (CR), and flat panel detectors (FPD), which are used in digital radiography (DR). It is worth noting that in computed radiography, cassette-based phosphor storage plates are scanned into a digital format for processing, storage, and presentation. Meanwhile, in digital radiography, the entire procedure is digitized where images are processed without the need of scanning the detector. a. Speed Usually, a cassette reader takes an average of one to two minutes to acquire and process an image. A flat panel detector, on the other hand, takes only 2-6 seconds to process an image. b. Cassette or Detector Size Usually, there are three sizes available in computed radiography systems or Flat Panel Detector (FPD) DR systems. These are 14 inches x 17 inches, 11 inches x 14 inches and10 inches x 12 inches. In DR systems, the most commonly used size is the14 inches x 17 inches wireless model. Still, there are also tethered or wired options, usually available in 17 inches x 17 inches dimensions. c. Cassette or Detector Handling FPD DR systems are generally easier to handle and have more advanced features like image storage, automatic exposure detection, access point mode, shock proofing, and water and dust protection. Meanwhile, CR cassettes must be handled with care, since they could easily get damaged if dropped accidentally from a certain distance. d. Maintenance CR Systems are cheaper but are usually more expensive to maintain due to wear and tear of its parts such as the gears, belts, laser steering, and eraser assemblies. FPD DR Systems on the other hand do not contain mechanical parts and are, therefore, more durable. For more such videos: ► Subscribe to our channel here:    / @care4lifetrading   ► Follow us on: Facebook: www.facebook.com/care4lifePH/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/care4lifeph/ Linkedin: ph.linkedin.com/company/care-4-life-ph/ Website: www.care4lifetrading.com/ For any other query, send us a personal message on any of our social media channels and we will be glad to answer them.