What is digital X-ray?
Digital X-ray is a modern development of the classic X-ray procedure that relies on the use of digital technologies and it is now the standard procedure used worldwide. Compared to conventional film technology, it offers numerous advantages, including significantly lower radiation exposure, faster image processing and the ability to store and share the results digitally.
This innovative method is used in medical diagnostics, dentistry and even in industry to gain detailed insights into internal structures. But how exactly does digital X-ray work, what advantages does it offer and how does it differ from traditional X-ray? This page will tell you everything you need to know about this pioneering procedure.
| Analog X-ray | Digital X-ray |
| Image acquisition and processing | |
| X-rays are recorded on a special film that has to be chemically developed. This process takes longer and is more complex. | Instead of a film, a digital detector is used, which converts the X-rays into electrical signals. These are processed into a digital image in a matter of seconds. |
| Radiation exposure | |
| Film technology often requires a higher radiation dose to ensure adequate image quality. | Due to the high sensitivity of the digital detectors, radiation exposure can be significantly reduced. |
| Image quality and post-processing | |
| The image quality is fixed and cannot be changed after development. Errors or unclear areas often require a retake. | The images can be post-processed, e.g. by adjusting brightness, contrast or magnification to make details more visible. |
| Storage and archiving | |
| The recordings have to be physically stored, which takes up space and makes administration time-consuming. | The images can be stored on digital storage media or in the cloud, which enables simple and space-saving archiving. |
| Environmental friendliness | |
| The chemical development of the film requires the use of chemicals that have to be disposed of, which has a negative impact on the environment. | No chemical development processes are required, which makes the process more environmentally friendly. |
| Time expenditure | |
| Film processing and image evaluation require more time. | The results are available almost immediately and can be analyzed directly or shared with other doctors. |
Easy switch to digital X-ray for greater efficiency
Now that you know the differences, including the advantages of digital X-rays, would you like to switch? No problem. Switching from analog to digital X-ray is uncomplicated and possible in most clinics without major conversion work. You can continue to use your existing X-ray system and add a digital X-ray detector (DR) or a CR read-out device and a findings monitor. Operation remains similar, as only the image generation and display change: a PC and monitor are used instead of a light box. The procedure remains virtually the same for both the user and the patient.
Examination procedure
The procedure for X-ray examinations does not change significantly when switching to digital X-rays.
The patient is prepared first, jewelry or interfering objects must be removed. The patient is then positioned correctly by qualified X-ray specialists. Depending on the area of the body to be examined, the X-ray can be taken in a standing, lying or sitting position.
The X-ray system is precisely adjusted to the required image. The image is acquired using a detector that converts the X-rays into a digital signal. The image appears on a monitor within seconds, where it can be directly checked, post-processed and analyzed by the doctor. After analysis, the images are stored digitally and can be forwarded quickly if required. Finally, the doctor discusses the results with the patient and clarifies the next steps.
The two methods of digital X-ray
In the direct radiography process, X-rays are sent directly to a detector.
This converts the radiation into electrical signals, creating electronic image information.
The computer's connected image processing system then converts the electronic image information into X-ray images in a matter of seconds. These are then evaluated by the specialist.
In the CR method, X-rays are directed onto phosphor-coated imaging plates.
The phosphor layer, which is located in the imaging plate cassette, stores the radiation intensity and generates an image from it.
In order to view the image, the imaging plate cassette must be brought to the CR scanner and read out. The read-out device generates digital data, which is displayed as an X-ray image in the connected image processing program on the computer.
The data on the imaging plate is then erased by light so that the next X-ray image can be taken.
1. Acquisition costs
- Investment in equipment: Digital X-ray detectors (DR), CR read-out devices and diagnostic monitors are more expensive to purchase than the analog alternatives.
- Installation: Adaptations to existing X-ray systems and integration into IT systems can incur additional costs.
2. Operating costs
- Lower consumables: In contrast to analog X-rays, there are no costs for X-ray films, chemicals and their disposal.
- Software and maintenance: Digital systems incur costs for updates, licenses and device maintenance.
3. Savings
- Time savings: Faster image processing reduces working time and increases efficiency in everyday practice.
- Space saving: Digital storage eliminates the need for physical archives.
- Environmental benefits: Eliminated chemicals and less radiation dose save resources in the long term.
4. Financing and funding options
- EXAMION offers various financing options and rental models.
- In some countries, there are funding programs that support the switch to digital X-ray technologies.
Despite higher acquisition costs, a digital X-ray system pays for itself in the long term through cost savings and increased efficiency.
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