Tag Archive for: fluoroscopy

A Guide to Mobile C-Arm Machines in Modern Medicine

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In the dynamic and often high-stakes world of healthcare, staying at the forefront of technological advancement is crucial. These innovative tools enhance the quality of care and broaden the spectrum of what is possible in surgical and interventional procedures. Among these tools stands the mobile C-Arm, a compact yet powerful imaging device that has redefined the standards of intraoperative visualization and patient care. Below, we’ll explore the expert uses and benefits that mobile C-Arm machines bring to the table, revolutionizing medical practices across the globe.

Amplifying or Intensifying the Light Signal

When precision and clarity are non-negotiable, mobile C-Arms deliver where others fall short. These devices boast an image intensifier—an intricate piece of technology—that does what its name suggests: significantly amplifies the light signal created by X-Ray beams. This process transforms obscure, internally cast shadows into detailed, real-time images that guide surgeons through intricate maneuvers. Imagine the line between a blurry, garbled radio transmission and a crystal-clear conversation—the difference an intensifier in a mobile C-Arm can provide during critical operations.

Clinical Need for Mobile C-Arm Imaging

The Mobile C-Arm is not a one-size-fits-all solution—it’s a precise tool for applications as diverse as the healthcare landscape. From orthopedic surgery, which aids in the accurate placement of implants, to emergency room traumas, which necessitate immediate and effective diagnosis, mobile C-Arms is a clinical mainstay. In these situations, speed, flexibility, and reliability are essential—attributes that the mobile C-Arm possesses in abundance. Its ability to pivot, arc, and tilt, coupled with swift image capture and data transfer, allows for a fluid, unimpeded flow in the surgical protocol.

Fluoroscopy in a C-Arm

Within the context of a mobile C-Arm, fluoroscopy becomes the keystone of dynamic, real-time imaging. A type of medical imaging that shows a continuous X-Ray image, the fluoroscopy capabilities of the C-Arm are instrumental in procedures that demand movement and monitoring, like those in Angiography or pain management. Not only does this technology aid in visualizing the structure and movement of internal structure organs with no invasive surgery, but it also plays an integral role in ensuring safe and precise medical intervention.

mobile c-arm machines

Functioning of the Image Intensifier

The image intensifier is the heart of a mobile C-arm’s imaging process and operates on sophisticated principles. The input phosphor screen converts X-Rays into visible light signals upon impact. Because of the conversion process within the image intensifier tube, which involves acceleration and multiplication, the high-intensity light becomes focused and captured by the output phosphor screen. This intensification process allows for detailed images, while reducing the risk of overexposure to X-Rays and minimizing the radiation dose to the patient and medical staff.

Working with an Image Intensifier

The intricate workings of the image intensifier are a marvel of medical engineering. The path from X-rays to visible light follows a concerted series of events that occur within fractions of a second. More than just a simple amplification, the working C-Arm image intensifier ensures that surgical teams receive immediate and continuous feedback, aligning with the fluid nature of their procedures. Through this process, mobile C-Arms offer a marriage of precision and speed unmatched by conventional imaging methods.

Image Location in the C-Arm Intensifier

The strategic placement of the image intensifier within the C-Arm enhances its usability and effectiveness. Its location ensures surgeons have an unobstructed view of the operating field, fostering efficiency and reducing the necessity for cumbersome repositioning. This saves valuable time and streamlines the surgical process, allowing healthcare professionals to focus on what truly matters—the patient.

Closing Thoughts

The mobile C-Arm is a testament to human ingenuity’s capability in healthcare technology. It is a beacon of advance that continues to drive medical progress, offering enhanced imaging capabilities that positively impact patient outcomes. With benefits ranging from reduced procedural times to lower radiation doses, mobile C-Arm machines are not just tools but partners in the mission to provide exceptional care. 

Now is the moment to unlock the full potential of mobile C-arm machines. Contact ImagPros and discover how this revolutionary imaging solution can completely change your healthcare practice.

Unleashing the Power of Mobile C-Arms: A Detailed Guide by ImagPros

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Hello Medical Professionals! At ImagPros, our team understands the complexities of your field and the need for reliable, top-of-the-line equipment. Today, we’re here to guide you through one such indispensable tool – Mobile C-Arms .

Understanding the Mobile C-Arm

Mobile C-Arms are incredible medical imaging tools with a distinctive ‘C’ shape that provides exceptional flexibility. These devices use X-Ray technology to capture real-time internal images of the body, offering advanced imaging capabilities in a compact design. With their ability to rotate and maneuver around patients, Mobile C-Arms provide healthcare professionals with a versatile imaging solution for various procedures and surgeries.

Fluoroscopy: The Heart of Imaging

Fluoroscopy is the driving force behind Mobile C-Arms. This real-time imaging technique allows physicians to visualize moving structures within the body, enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. With near-zero levels of leakage radiation in our machines, such as the SKAN-C, we help ensure the safety of patients and medical staff.

Diverse Imaging Modes

Mobile C-Arms offer various imaging modes, including:

  • Standard fluoroscopy: Provides real-time X-ray imaging for dynamic procedures.
  • Digital subtraction angiography (DSA): Enhances visualization of blood vessels by subtracting background structures.
  • Road mapping: Allows for precise navigation during interventional procedures.

Each mode serves a unique purpose, providing unparalleled versatility in patient care. Our range of C-Arms, including the SKAN-C and the OEC models, supports all these modes.

mobile c-arms

The Role of Mobile C-Arms in Medicine

Mobile C-Arms are valuable across medical specialties such as orthopedics, neurology, gastrointestinal, urology, and pain management. They provide real-time visualization that significantly enhances the accuracy of interventions. For example, C-Arms are crucial in orthopedic surgeries, allowing surgeons to position implants accurately and perform minimally invasive procedures.

With their versatility and portability, Mobile C-Arms have become indispensable in modern healthcare settings. Their ability to deliver high-quality imaging in real time enables medical professionals to make more informed decisions and improve patient outcomes.

The Value of a Mobile C-Arm

The advantages of Mobile C-Arms extend beyond superior imaging quality. Their ease of use, mobility, and customizable reporting make them an asset to any medical facility. Whether it’s a brand-new machine offering up to 15 years of life or a fully refurbished system with a 7 to 10-year lifespan, we provide solutions that fit your needs.

ImagPros: Your Partner in Excellence

At ImagPros, we’re not just about selling equipment. We offer comprehensive service contracts, professional logistics, shielding plans, room design, and layout services. Every piece of equipment comes with a warranty, and defective ones can be swapped out at no charge.

Our 66-step refurbishing process ensures that our machines, including popular models like the OEC 9900 and OEC 9800, function like new. And for those who are budget-conscious, we offer easy financing options.

We hope this guide has shed light on when and why to use a Mobile C-Arm. For more information, reach out to us at 248-951-9020. We look forward to being your trusted partner in delivering exceptional patient care.

ImagPros – leading the way in advanced medical imaging solutions!

Future of Mobile C-Arm Imaging Systems with ImagPros

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In the ever-evolving Medical Imaging industry, staying up-to-date with the latest technology is critical. ImagPros LLC, backed by over 50 years of combined experience, is here to navigate these advancements with you. Our focus today? Mobile C-Arm Imaging Systems – a vital tool in the modern healthcare landscape. Join us as we delve into the exciting innovations shaping this sphere.

Refining Diagnostic & Surgical Imaging: A Leap Forward

In advanced diagnostic & surgical imaging, a significant stride has been made by Ziehm Imaging.  In partnership for distribution with Carestream, they’ve launched an impressive addition to their product line – the Ziehm Vision RFD C-Arm System. This innovative mobile fluoroscopic surgical imaging system, equipped with a flat-panel detector, broadens the scope of medical procedures, offering:

  • Versatility in handling a diverse range of procedures such as vascular, cardiac, ortho-trauma spine, pain management, and various general surgical applications.
  • With its advanced active cooling feature, superior endurance outperforms traditional air-cooled systems’ case durations.
  • User-friendliness through an intuitive graphical interface minimizes training time and boosts productivity for technologists.

Mobile C-Arm Imaging Systems

Portable Mini C-Arm: A Revolution in Medical Imaging

The Smart-C Mini Mobile C-Arm by Turner Imaging Systems is a groundbreaking medical imaging milestone. Its compact design delivers high-quality mobile imaging. This lightweight, CE Mark-approved device transforms point-of-care imaging in the EU, UK, and US.

It proves that advanced technology can be user-friendly and accessible. The cord-free structure enhances surgeons’ flexibility, showing size doesn’t limit performance. This game-changing innovation sets new standards in medical imaging with its credibility and expertise.

3-D Surgical Imaging System: A New Dimension of Precision

In March 2021, GE Healthcare launched the groundbreaking OEC 3D system, revolutionizing surgical visualization. With FDA’s 510(k) clearance, this innovative imaging system combines 2-D intuitiveness with 3-D precision, designed specifically for spine and orthopedic procedures. It enhances efficiency, accessibility, and usability, transforming surgical precision and patient experiences.

The Mobile C-Arm is a crucial part of this system, providing high-resolution real-time X-ray imaging. It allows surgeons to monitor surgery progress without large incisions. The fluoroscopy’s versatile movement and positioning enable capturing images at different angles, obtaining precise 3D reconstructions, and enhancing the OEC 3D system’s accuracy.

Endovascular 3D Image Guidance: Navigating with Confidence

The Endovascular 3D image guidance is a remarkable and innovative breakthrough in medical technology. By providing clinicians with a detailed 3D roadmap of the patient’s vascular anatomy, this cutting-edge technology revolutionizes the field of minimally invasive procedures. With enhanced precision and accuracy, clinicians can navigate confidently, improving patient outcomes and shorter recovery times.

Multidisciplinary Functionality: Versatility at Its Best

The latest mobile fluoroscopy systems are revolutionizing the medical field with their exceptional multidisciplinary functionality. These sophisticated systems are versatile, catering to a wide range of medical disciplines such as orthopedics, gastroenterology, and more. This remarkable versatility underscores their immense value and significance in modern healthcare settings, where they play a crucial role in enhancing patient care and improving diagnostic accuracy.

ImagPros: Your Partner in Navigating the Future

We guarantee that ImagPros will always be your trusted partner in navigating the rapidly evolving medical imaging landscape. 

Stay connected at 248-951-9020 or info@imagpros.com to stay up-to-date on the most recent technological leaps in Mobile C-Arm Imaging Systems.

A Comprehensive Guide to C-Arm X-Ray Fluoroscopy

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As a leading imaging equipment provider, we at ImagPros understand the importance of having the right tools for the job. Let’s unlock the essentials together! This comprehensive guide dives deep into C-Arm X-ray fluoroscopy, covering everything from its definition to its various components and applications.

What is a C-Arm Fluoroscopy

A C-Arm machine is a specialized medical imaging device that uses X-rays to produce real-time images of the body’s internal structures. Its name comes from the arm’s distinctive “C” shape, which allows the X-ray source and image intensifier to be positioned on opposite sides of the patient. This design provides unparalleled flexibility and maneuverability, enabling healthcare professionals to get high-quality images from virtually any angle.

What is an X-Ray Image Intensifier?

In any C-Arm fluoroscopy, the X-ray image intensifier is the central component that converts X-ray energy into visible light. The image intensifier produces top-quality images with minimal distortion and noise. A viewer can see real-time photos on a screen as the camera captures light.  Some newer models now feature a flat detector instead of an image intensifier, as well.

c-arm x-ray fluoroscopy

 

Who Uses a C-Arm?

Many healthcare professionals use C-Arm machines, including orthopedic surgeons, interventional radiologists, and pain management specialists among many others. They are particularly well-suited for use during surgical procedures, as they allow doctors to visualize the area being treated with no invasive techniques. Some typical applications include:

  • Orthopedic surgery, such as joint replacements or spinal fusions etc…
  • Interventional radiology, including angioplasty and stent placement etc…
  • Pain management for targeted injections, nerve blocks, kyphoplasty, RF Ablation, stimulator implants, etc…

What Are the Components of a C-Arm?

Several key components make up a C-Arm system, including:

  1. X-ray generator: This device generates X-rays to create images of the body’s internal structures.
  2. C-Arm: The characteristic “C” shaped arm houses the X-ray source and image intensifier , allowing them to be positioned opposite each other.
  3. Image intensifier: As discussed earlier, this component converts X-ray energy into visible light, which is then captured by a camera.
  4. Monitor: The monitor displays real-time images, enabling healthcare professionals to view and assess the patient’s condition during a procedure.

These are just a few of the essential components that make up a C-Arm system. With their incredible versatility and powerful imaging capabilities, these machines can be invaluable tools in the hands of an experienced healthcare provider.

 

If you want to upgrade your imaging equipment, contact us today, and let’s get started!

Reasons to Use a C-Arm System

There are several reasons a C-Arm fluoroscopy system is an invaluable tool for healthcare professionals:

  • Real-time imaging: C-Arm machines provide real-time images, allowing doctors to make adjustments and confirm the success of a procedure as it’s happening.
  • Minimally invasive: By providing clear, detailed images, C-Arm machines enable doctors to perform procedures with minimal invasiveness, reducing recovery time and improving patient outcomes.
  • Versatility: A C-Arm machine’s unique design allows for unparalleled positioning flexibility, making it suitable for various applications.
  • Efficiency: With high-quality images at the touch of a button, C-Arm machines streamline the imaging process, saving time and resources.

Ready to unlock the power of a C-Arm X-ray machine for your practice?

Contact ImagPros at info@imagpros.com to learn more about our range of state-of-the-art imaging equipment and expert support services for C-Arm fluoroscopy. Together, we’ll ensure you have the tools to provide the best care for your patients.

Shielding Plan Consideration

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A shielding plan is a document that details the materials and designs used to isolate radiation in an area. It outlines which materials should be used, where they should be placed, and how effectively they prevent radiation from entering or leaving the room. Shielding plans can also specify additional safety protocols for radiation-related activities, such as using appropriate clothing and protective equipment. Each state has its own set of regulations and guidelines for shielding plans, so it’s essential to understand the specific details of your location.

The ImagPros Promise

ImagPros is proud to offer a customized consulting program tailored to Turn-key solutions when purchasing our equipment. Our team of experts will help you create an effective shielding plan compliant with state regulations. We’ve done the research, so you don’t have to—our five-step process allows us to provide you with a detailed list of rules that need to be followed, along with suggestions on which materials will provide the best protection. Every X-ray and fluoroscopy sale comes with a free shielding plan that will be state compliant—we won’t leave you alone to figure it out on your own. We strive to provide the best protection for our customers and their businesses.

Our Customized Plans

Each business is unique, and we design your shielding plan based on the size and layout of your facility. We consider traffic patterns, room dimensions, and materials used in construction to create a plan that meets your needs. If any changes need to be made to an existing structure or activity spaces, we’ll provide detailed recommendations for implementing these. We also consider the radiation in your area and create shielding plans that protect staff and customers from unnecessary exposure.

What Do We Need for Requirements?

We need specific information about your facility to create a shielding plan, including the room’s layout and windows. We’ll also need to know the floor you’re on and the material used between floors (typically steel beam with 2 inches of concrete). Finally, we’ll need to know how many procedures you expect to be performed each week and the amount of fluoroscopy/x-ray time per patient.

1. Drawing of the room (with Length x Width)5. Anything above/below?
2. What is on each side of the wall?6. What is the material between floors (typical material is steel beam with 2 inches of concrete)
3. Any Windows?7. How many procedures expected per week?
4. What floor are you on?8. How much fluoro time per patient?

Shielding Plan

We also consider lead thickness requirements. For Fluoroscopic Procedure Rooms, 1/32 inch lead is the general requirement. For typical Diagnostic Stationary X-ray Rooms, 1/16 inch lead may be needed. We offer a Lead Door with reinforced hinges to support the door’s weight and can supply alternative options in our Action Plan. Our lead can be purchased in 4 feet by 7 feet sheets for installation in wall construction.

We look forward to helping you protect your employees and customers in the most effective way possible.

 

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C-Arm Cost of Ownership: The 5-Year Breakdown

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A C-Arm, also known as fluoroscopy, is a medical imaging device that provides real-time imaging of patients during surgery. These are used in various settings, including pain management facilities, outpatient surgery centers, orthopedic clinics, and more. If you’re considering purchasing a C-Arm, one of the first questions you’ll need to answer is how much it will cost. It’s not as simple as the upfront cost.

With medical imaging systems, the initial purchase price is only a small part of the overall cost. We’re here to dive deep into the full 5-YEAR COST OF OWNERSHIP with you! We’ll examine the costs associated with the initial purchase, maintenance, warranty, and financing.

You have three choices when purchasing a C-Arm: new, used, or refurbished. New/refurbished systems typically only have a one-year warranty. This leads to buying an extended contract ranging anywhere from $8K – $15K per year. Whereas some brands, such as the Skan-C, come with a five-year warranty, while used systems do not.

You can purchase used/refurbished systems for as little as $40,000 to over $100,000. In contrast, a new system could cost $70,000 to over $200,000, depending on the size and features. New and refurbished systems are often equipped with a one-year standard warranty. Either route, owners are left with the choice to purchase a yearly contract to cover parts and labor.

C-Arm Cost of Ownership: The 5-Year Breakdown

Example- Refurbished vs. New

  • $40,000 for a four-year warranty on a 15-year-old refurbished system. With an original purchase price of $55,000, the five-year cost of ownership is $95,000.
  • $50,000 for a four-year warranty on a new system, with an original purchase price of $150,000, and the five-year cost of ownership is $200,000. 

Always make sure to factor in the repair cost and any downtime associated with those repairs. Even with proper maintenance, unexpected failures can occur. Although some broken parts may be covered under warranty, many are not. Downtime = patient cancellation, unsatisfied customers, and loss of revenue. Customers under service contracts take precedence and have guaranteed response times over customers who aren’t under warranty.

For example, the glassware, which includes the x-ray tube, image intensifier, and camera, are among the most expensive parts. These are typically prorated with most warranties which put the cost of repair burden back onto the end user. Review your warranty before purchasing to ensure you understand what is and is not covered.

Preventative maintenance is critical and can elongate the life of your system. Each state is different, so make sure to check your local state regulations to find out how many PMs are required per year for your fluoroscopy machine. PMs range anywhere between $850 to $2,000 per visit. 

When it comes to paying for your C-Arm, there are many options to consider. Do you pay cash, or do you finance? Most of our doctors find that financing is the way to go. 

This way, you can keep the cash in your bank to run and operate your business effectively. Financing offers deferred payments, which allows you to get the system in the door making revenue before worrying about any payments. Please also make sure that your financing solution qualifies for IRS Rule 179. 

This will typically put between 30%-35% of your purchase price back into your bottom line at the end of the year. There Are good finance programs and bad finance programs. Be sure to ask about pre-payment penalties, rates, and loan terms. 

By now, I’m sure you’ve come to realize that the cost of owning a C-Arm system goes far beyond the initial purchase price. When budgeting, you need to consider installation, maintenance, repair, and warranties. Considering these factors, you can decide whether a new or refurbished system makes the most financial sense for your organization.

Do you want to learn more about a C-Arm and get expert advice for your company? Contact Imagpros today. We offer new and refurbished C-Arms at affordable prices with excellent financing options. Our imaging experts can help you find the perfect system for your needs. Call us at 248-951-9020 or fill out our online contact form to get started.

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