X-rays are one of the cornerstones of modern technology. They have a huge variety of uses: cancer treatment, disease detecting, airport inspection, tomography, etc. The uses are virtually endless.
X-rays are a type of electromagnetic radiation, meaning their rays take the shape of waves or particles. They contain very high amounts of energy and the resulting radiation makes x-rays dangerous to humans and animals.
What Does A Portable X-Ray Machine Do?
A portable x-ray machine performs many of the same functions as a stationary x-ray facility. By sending radiative waves through an object, the energy will be absorbed at different times depending on the density. It will still accurately reflect the necessary parts of the object, person, or animal.
Having an x-ray system being portable opens up a lot of possibilities. For example, medical and veterinary professionals are able to serve patients remotely or outside and do not need to conduct x-rays in the clinic.
Some mobile x-ray machines will be transported in vans. Meanwhile smaller versions can be moved in a rolling pushcart. Different industries will use varying sizes. Regardless of the size and perceived power of portable x-ray machines, all should be accompanied by the appropriate protective equipment. A portable x-ray can still inflict damage and requires lead aprons, thyroid collars, lead glasses, etc. in order to guarantee safety.
Parts of An Mobile X-Ray System
There are two essential parts to a portable x-ray machine. They work in tandem to produce the x-rayed image. A smaller sized, individual system will be on wheels whereas the larger systems will be stored in a vehicle.
The first, the x-ray generator, shoots an electron stream towards the object being x-rayed. The x-ray generator has a tube, generator, controls, and cooling systems. The cooling system is important because the electron beam produces heat. This must be dispelled for proper usage.
The second half of an x-ray system is the image detecting apparatus. After the electron beam passes through the object, the image detecting apparatus will be able to record the related image. A mobile x-ray system will usually have a patient shield as well.
Types of Mobile X-Ray Systems
Different types of x-ray systems exist to fulfill various purposes. Some of the most prominent are within the medical and veterinary industries; they are in constant demand and require more remote and mobile services and treatments. No matter which type of machine is being used, all individuals should be wearing protective gear.
For example, one of the main types of mobile x-ray machines is used for providing remote screenings. Remote screenings are very important for patients, both human and animal, who cannot come into a clinic. This can include patients in nursing homes, athletes on the move, and ambulances. Larger animals, such as horses and farm animals, benefit from mobile systems as well.
Mobile x-ray systems do not have to be outside hospitals and clinics to be useful. Individuals in intensive care units or operating rooms will likely have x-rays taken using a mobile system because they cannot be moved into the x-ray rooms.
In addition, mobile systems can be advantageous for taking x-rays on smaller parts of the body, such as the hands or feet. Using a mobile system in these situations keeps the larger x-ray rooms free for individuals needing the machine’s full capacity.
Benefits of Portable X-Ray Machines
Mobile x-ray machines have changed the landscape of diagnostic imaging. By expanding the types and number of individuals that can be tended to, the quality of service is improved.
Some of the benefits gained from using portable x-ray machines are:
- A handy tool for the diagnosis and monitoring of patients
- Good for low volume or startup facilities with tiny spaces
- Operational with little to no construction costs
- Great for bedside and emergency room use
- Access to remote patients of any kind
It is a misconception to think that protective lead gear is not necessary when using a mobile x-ray system. Mobile x-ray systems, like stationary ones, still emit dangerous waves of radiation that can have long-lasting negative effects on both humans and animals. Therefore, lead aprons, collars, and glasses should always be worn.
A Simple Guide on Choosing the Right Mobile X-ray Imaging Equipment
It can be confusing to choose the right mobile x-ray equipment. The key to finding the right system is to keep in mind what the specific needs of your organization may be. The way the equipment will be used will be unique to every organization, so knowing the requirements in detail will help narrow down choices.
However, some basic features that should be looked for in particular are:
- Visibility
- Ease of transportation
- Image processing speed and preview
- Reliability and flawless implementation process
A good quality system will have these features as a standard. Most mobile x-ray systems will not come with protective equipment and it will need to be ordered separately.
Innovations in X-ray Equipment
X-rays continue to evolve and change the technological world. Many of these advancements occur within the medical and veterinary fields, providing huge advantages for health outcomes in the future.
These innovations taking x-ray technology further into the future include:
- Germanium absorbers for x-ray applications in the field of medical imaging
This development means it becomes easier to find potentially problematic groups of cells in the body.
- A new method of X-ray imaging that uses color to identify microfractures in bones
Using color in x-rays to find microfractures is more precise, allowing patients to get more accurate care.
- Sensitive detectors to provide low dose but high-resolution images
A lower dose x-ray means patients are exposed to much less radiation, lowering the chances of detrimental effects.
Barrier Technologies: Provider of Quality X-Ray Accessories for Radiation Protection
Barrier Technologies is a leading provider of protective gear. With high-quality xray aprons, x ray thyroid shield collars, glasses, etc., we supply full coverage. Customization options, innovative magnetic closures, and lightweight, flexible material set us apart.
Our team is always ready to answer questions or give a quote, so please give us a call today!
