Studies have shown that low-level radiation from the overuse of x-rays has been responsible for a large number of deaths from heart disease and cancer. Used routinely for decades for all manner of procedures unnecessarily, including pelvic x-rays in mothers shortly before giving birth and pediatric well baby exams, it was believed that the low doses were not a significant risk. However, it is now known that the cumulative mutagenic effect over time has significantly harmful consequences. This is a risk not only for patients but for personnel who are exposed routinely to radiation "scatter."
There is no question of the value of medical x-rays and fluoroscopy in which the x-ray beam remains on for diagnostic and procedural uses. There are, however, continuous efforts within the medical industry to reduce and limit x-ray dosage for the protection of patients and personnel. This includes being more judicious in the use of x-rays by limiting their use to times when it is absolutely necessary and through advancements in technology.
The C-Arm, or x-ray image intensifier, is a technology that allows for lowered x-ray doses by magnifying the intensity of the image so it can be easily seen as a live image displayed on a TV screen. They are accurate and precise devices used in a variety of both surgical and nonsurgical procedures including minimally invasive general surgery and orthopedic applications, cardiac, vascular, urology, and neurovascular applications.
C-Arms are used as both fixed equipment in a dedicated x-ray screening rooms and as mobile equipment used primarily in theatre. The smaller, mobile image intensifiers are increasing in power with more advanced technology, enabling more technical procedures to be done in the more confined environment of the theatre. It has become an integral part of orthopedic practice, reducing the risk of scatter radiation to the patient, surgeon, and theatre personnel. Being surgeon operated, the C-Arm also reduces the need for radiographer staffing.
C-Arm imaging adjusts to motion and tissue thickness to produce a clear image without distortion or blurriness. Software automatically adjusts the radiation dosage to provide the highest quality image with the lowest exposure possible. Digital images can be stored on a hard drive, printed, exported to CD or DVD media, or exported to a USB for storage or off-site review.
The versatile C-Arm x-ray image intensifier increases the capabilities of surgeons and diagnosticians to perform less invasive procedures while reducing the risk of radiation exposure. These capabilities and safety are sure to increase in coming years as the technology grows more powerful and advanced.
Author Resource:-
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