Image clarity, reduced exposure to radiation, and a limited amount of chemical usage make digital X-ray machines a staple item found in many imaging centers and hospitals. If the purchase of new X-ray equipment has you torn between investing in a large digital unit or a standard machine that uses film, consider how these two machine types differentiate.
Imaging Solutions
X-rays are critical in discovering various injuries and ailments within the human body. A non-invasive procedure that involves x-ray imaging will only require that a patient remains still while the imaging is being conducted. X-rays emit electromagnetic radiation. The high amount of energy that is released is able to pass through the body. The human body is placed between an X-ray source and an X-ray detector. An older piece of X-ray equipment will use film to capture images. A series of chemicals are used to develop each piece of film.
A digital X-ray machine uses the same concepts as an older machine. This type of machine omits the use of film, however. Instead, digital imagery is used to capture images. Images can be produced quickly with the use of a digital machine. An X-ray technician will be able to collect a series of high-contrast images within minutes. These images can be assessed during a consultation and will allow a technician to accurately determine what type of problem exists within a patient's body.
X-Ray Essentials and Waste Requirements
Because of the amount of radiation that is emitted during a standard X-ray session that involves the use of film, a patient may be required to cover their body with a lead vest. They may also be subjected to limited imaging sessions that will involve very few images. A digital machine will still emit radiation. Due to technological advances, the amount of radiation released with the use of digital imagery is much less than the amount of radiation released with standard X-ray equipment.
If an older X-ray machine is being used, the person who develops the film will need to use chemicals. The chemicals need to be disposed of in a safe manner. Chemical waste that is added to the ground could potentially contaminate dirt or natural bodies of water that the chemicals come into contact with. Digital imagery eliminates the need to use chemicals. This could save a medical practitioner a considerable amount of money and eliminate variables that could be potentially hazardous to the environment.
For more information, look to a company such as VXS Imaging.
