Medical imaging is a vital procedure used by health practitioners to view patients' bodies, thereby facilitating early and accurate diagnosis. It's vastly popular because the processes involved are relatively pain-free and non-invasive. C-arms are among the best medical imaging devices preferred by experts worldwide that offer such benefits. These machines are equipped with top-notch x-ray technologies that make them ideal for numerous operating rooms (OPs) in different clinics. The sections below contain all you need to know about c-arms, including the types available today and their applications.
Main Types of C-Arms
Many different c-arms are available in today's market. However, most of the ones you will likely encounter are in either of the following categories:
1. Mini c-arms
Mini c-arms are mobile fluoroscopes designed to protect patients, theatre personnel, and surgeons from excessive radiation exposure. Most practitioners prefer these devices for routine use and procedures because they are simpler to operate, compact, and relatively affordable. Plus, trained physicians can work with mini c-arms without requiring radiographer services.
2. Compact c-arms
Compact c-arms are smaller than full-size c-arms but considerably bigger than mini c-arms. That means they are ideal for health professionals that need equipment more powerful than a mini c-arm but don't need or can't accommodate full-size c-arms. The pros of all-in-one compact c-arms include using up a reasonable footprint and cost-effectiveness.
3. Full-size c-arms
Conventional full-size c-arms are imaging systems with a mobile unit and separate monitor cart. The mobile component is the c-arm and comes with the x-ray tube, image intensifier, control unit, and rotating c-shaped arm. On the other hand, the monitor cart comprises monitors, a keyboard, a paper printer, and other components.
Common Applications of C-Arms
C-arms are commonly used in:
1. General surgery
General surgery covers diverse human body parts, including the endocrine system, alimentary tract, breast, skin, and abdominal content. Surgeons in this area use c-arms to view and diagnose said parts' conditions because these devices are designed to capture precise images in real-time. And that makes general surgical procedures more expedient and efficient. They also come in handy in diagnosing surgical emergencies like appendicitis, pelvic infections, and perforated typhoid ulcers early before they cause fatalities.
2. Orthopedic practice
Orthopedic surgeons use c-arms to get clear images of various patients' anatomical areas like the hips, hands, knees, and shoulder bones. Most of these experts have mini c-arms in their facilities because they find them easier to use and effective in reducing the need for radiology departments and the cost of treatment. These devices also help orthopedic surgeons cut scattered radiation doses and screening times.
To learn more, contact a company such as Rad Rays LLC.
Share16 February 2022
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