You have many options for selecting your ideal radiography equipment, whether upgrading from analog to digital technology or setting up an advanced lab that displays efficiency, accuracy, and patient comfort.

Healthcare professionals perform approximately 70 percent of all imaging using X-ray technology. As a result, there are many touchpoints between a patient and a system throughout the continuum of care. As healthcare and reimbursement environments evolve, this extraordinary technology will substantially impact a facility’s bottom line, as patient satisfaction determines its total revenue.

According to estimates, the global market for digital X-rays is expected to reach USD 16.4 billion by 2026, up from an estimated USD 11.1 billion in 2021, with a compound annual growth rate of 8.1%. Several factors are contributing to the growth of this market, including the growing geriatric population, increased disease incidence, and favorable government regulations, investments, and initiatives. The advantages offered by digital X-ray systems have played a significant role in their adoption; their speed and accuracy, and quick processing times enable them to screen a significantly higher number of patients than was previously possible. Consequently, companies have been compelled to focus on product development and innovation.

What Is The Definition of Digital X-Ray Imaging?

X-rays are typically created in vacuum tubes for medical or diagnostic purposes by bombarding a metal target with high-speed electrons passing through the patient’s body to a photographic plate or digital recorder. A CT creates an image of the human body by passing high-frequency electromagnetic waves through soft tissues. In terms of x-ray imaging, North America currently leads the world. This is mainly due to the increased amount of research on imaging technology North America performs to advance it. 

Types of Different X-Ray Machines

• Fixed X-ray- The machines in this group are characterized by requiring transformers of such a large size and output they must be integrated into the room and provided with a unique electrical connection to the mains. Typically, such devices can handle at least 300 mA and 120 kV, and in some cases, much higher (1000 mA and 200 lV). A high-tension cable connects the X-ray tube to the transformer, which is mounted on a gantry that restricts the movement of the tube. In most cases, such apparatus is not used in teaching schools and research institutes due to its high cost.
•  X-ray- Lead does not need to be added to the walls. There is low weight to the transformers, as they are small. There are X-ray devices with wheels, motorized, and handheld devices. It can also be quickly operational, and it has relatively low to no construction costs. Being compact, they are ideal for small-size or startup facilities. This is an excellent imaging tool for diagnosing and monitoring patients.
• Mobile X-ray- Any room in the building can be furnished with this equipment to provide imaging services. By doing so, the patient is not required to move from room to room. Mobile equipment produces a higher level of output than equipment that is stationary. X-Ray systems consist of a motorized drive (a compact wheelbase containing the generator), an x-ray tube attached to a positioning column, and an exposure control panel. An electric motor is powered by a battery that assists the movement of mobile X-ray equipment. 

How to Choose the Best Digital X-Ray for your Facility?

Today, a wide variety of medical and lab equipment has transitioned to a digital format in response to this technology’s many benefits. You will notice increased operating speeds, reduced delay and accelerated turnaround time for best results. Images have better contrast and can be manipulated to improve readability further. Both patients and staff will have less radiation exposure – possibly up to 80% less. Results can be immediately transmitted electronically to treatment providers and viewed directly on computer screens.

When choosing any new x-ray equipment, some factors to consider are its main purpose and usage. Consider where you need to perform imaging. Will you be using the equipment in a single location, or will you need the equipment to be portable? It would be wise to consider what type of imaging would be performed and what type of equipment would be needed to do so; will you be doing general diagnostic x-rays, or will you also need specialized equipment for images such as mammography, C-arms for surgical procedures, or technological devices for dental applications? 

Applications of a Digital X-Ray Machine

X-rays are electromagnetic waves, a type of radiation. X-ray imaging creates images of the body’s internal organs displayed in various shades of white and black. Radiation is absorbed in a variety of ways by different materials. Calcium, for example, is the substance that absorbs the most radiation. When viewed on an imaging device, bones will appear white. The soft tissues and fat take in less light, which is why they look gray. Since air reflects the least light, the lungs will appear black.

1. Checking Symptoms of the Body- X-ray technology serves various purposes in the medical field. It is helpful for doctors to have conventional x-ray images in order to check symptoms that originate inside the body. For example, an x-ray of the chest creates a picture of the chest’s interior. This information allows a doctor to test the heart, lungs, and chest wall. They can diagnose shortness of breath or a persistent cough. X-rays can also monitor treatments for lung conditions such as emphysema and pneumonia.
2. Diagnosing patient’s Injuries- Ionizing radiation is used in bone x-rays. A bone fracture or injury can be assessed using this x-ray. The device will produce an image of a bone in the body, which doctors can use to diagnose dislocations of joints or fractures of bones. 
3. Complete Dental Check- The dentist will use a low-radiation dental x-ray to obtain images of your teeth. As a result, oral health can be checked. Your dentist can identify any problem areas near your teeth or gums, including tooth decay, cavities, and otherwise-affected teeth. A dental x-ray is just as favorable as a dental cleaning. They help track the condition of your oral health. 
4. Mammography of the patient- This type of medical imaging aims to obtain images of the internal structure of the breasts using x-rays. An x-ray machine generates a burst of x-rays transmitted through the breast to an X-Ray Detector on the other side. A detector captures an image on film using a photographic film plate. Early detection of breast cancer is possible with mammography.
5. Joint Changes and problems with Arthritis- Joints can experience a variety of problems. During this process, cartilage may be worn out, ligaments may be torn, or bones may be fractured. A standard imaging technique, such as an x-ray, may not be effective. A specialist can use an arthrogram to detect joint changes associated with arthritis. The arthrogram is a specialized x-ray used to identify the source of the problem.

In purchasing any equipment, the buyer is not simply acquiring a piece of machinery but is also entering into a long-term relationship that includes up-front application assistance, training, parts supply, and technical support. It would help if you were to choose a supplier you feel most comfortable with and who offers ongoing support.

Are you still wondering how to choose the best supplier to provide you with the best services and products? You can reach us at Hi-tech Medical Imaging to get a quote. Contact us Today!