Title: Diagnosis & Solve Common C-Arm Issues
1Sensible Solutions for Refurbished Radiology
Diagnosis Solve Common C-Arm Issues
By Vikki Harmonay
2Sensible Solutions for Refurbished Radiology
- Is your C-Arm performing perfectly? Or, are you
experiencing poor image quality, communication
errors or other issues? Problems with C-arms The
experts at Atlantis Worldwide put together this
list of the most common C-Arm problems and how to
solve them. - The X-ray tube could be damaged or pitted
- The Image Intensifier might be damaged.
- Charger failure
- Hard drives may be full or need replacing
- Communication error
3Sensible Solutions for Refurbished Radiology
- In addition to these problems, you could have
minor issues, which can include - Switches failing
- C-Arm lock up
- Your Laser targeting device needs adjustments
- Insulation around the cables could be degrading
- Residue might have been imbedded in the components
4Sensible Solutions for Refurbished Radiology
It All Starts with A Basic C-Arm Diagnosis
- If you want to get to the bottom on your C-Arm
image quality issues, be sure to perform basic
diagnosis. It pretty easy, if you follow these
steps - If the anatomy being imaged is above or below the
iso-center of the image intensifier, it can give
you high contrast or grainy images. By simply
adjusting the height of the C-Arm, the image
quality can be improved. - If your C-Arm is positioned near varying tissue
densities, the Automatic Exposure Control will
adjust to both densities at the same time which
can cause a grainy or high contrast image. Try
centering the tube to the area that is most dense
first, then wait for the AEC to adjust to the
body section being imaged.
5Sensible Solutions for Refurbished Radiology
- Use the (flouro ) boost function when imaging a
dense body section like a lateral hip joint.
Position the C-Arm to the densest area of the
body first, like the L5-S1. Wait for the
brightness/contrast to adjust and then move to
the part being imaged. - You can also try re-booting the C-Arm. Just turn
it off, count to 10 and then restart the unit.
6Sensible Solutions for Refurbished Radiology
What To Look For While Diagnosing Your C-Arm
- Are your images grainy, dark or light? Are the
edges sharp or blurry? Is there a good range of
whites, grays and blacks? Does your C-Arm render
objects with good tonal value? If not try this - Use manual controls to adjust the contrast or
brightness - Try using the edge enhancement feature
- Attempt a manual technique
- If these steps dont solve your image issues,
its time to call in a professional for a C-Arm
diagnosis.
7Sensible Solutions for Refurbished Radiology
Extend The Life of Your C-Arm
- C-Arms arent cheap. Thats why youll want to
take these five steps to keep your up and running
for a long time. - Keep your batteries charged by keeping your C-Arm
plugged in even when its not being used. Youll
get better technique with full generator
batteries. - Have a Service Engineer perform preventative
maintenance every year. This will help you
recognize any developing issues, maintain solid
image quality and catch little problems before
they become big ones. Inspect the brakes, cables,
wheels and all mechanical assemblies.
8Sensible Solutions for Refurbished Radiology
- Use protective C-Arm drapes to prevent blood and
human bio from seeping through covers into the
tube and electronics. - Clean the keyboard, C-Arm Covers, tube, image
intensifier and power cables regularly. And dont
forget to check and clean the fan filters. This
can prevent dust in the electrical components. Be
sure to check the C-Arm wheels and monitor cart
wheels for sutures and other items that can get
stuck. This can affect drivability and braking. - Protect your monitors by adjusting the sleep mode
setting. A short sleep mode is better for units
with CRT monitors since images can get burned in
after a system stays on for long periods of time.
9Sensible Solutions for Refurbished Radiology
Talk To An Expert
Is your C-Arm still performing well for you? If
not, talk to the experts at Atlantis Worldwide.
Oftentimes you can find a used or refurbished
C-Arm that delivers great performance at a much
lower price pointand you still get a terrific
warranty. Or, if youve outgrown your C-Arm, talk
to Atlantis Worldwide about trading in or selling
your current one. Were here to help. Contact Us
Today!
10Sensible Solutions for Refurbished Radiology
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- Comparing The GE Innova Digital Cath Lab Family
2100, 3100 4100 - Top 7 C-Arms for Your Orthopedic Practice
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