Installation planning: Digitising an existing X-ray installation

Are you thinking about to digitising your existing X-ray system? In principle this is a simple operation. No major conversion measures are needed to switch over to fully digital X-ray imaging. Nevertheless, careful planning is essential to make this transition as smooth as possible.
The key aspects that need special attention can be roughly summarised in three steps:

In the majority of cases, the detector can easily replace the cassette used by the existing imaging plate system. To make sure that this is the right move, the following three questions need to be clarified first:

• Is any remodeling of the space required?
• Will the X-ray detector fit into the bucky tray?
• Will you be needing a new grid (to reduce scattered radiation reaching the detector)?

A review of the existing X-ray system documentation (mainly the acceptance test (RöV §16/DIN 6868-150) and the independent expert’s report) will establish the key technical information in advance. This will help prevent any unforeseen complications associated with the upgrade.

Existing lighting conditions also play a major role in the quality of the X-ray images. Firstly, the X-ray room should be equipped with dimmable lighting for optimum viewing conditions, with a darker option being available to acquire optimal images of superimposed organs.
Secondly, a suitable location needs to be found for the diagnostic monitor. This is because the illuminance (lx) of the room must meet certain values to guarantee a valid diagnosis. Most of our applications involve X-ray images of the thorax, skeletal anatomy and the abdomen, and projection radiography is generally used for these. The room parameters must first be determined before the diagnostics monitor can be relocated. Viewing conditions for reading diagnostic radiographic images mean that the room must have a illuminance level of not more that 50 lx. This value must also be kept within a constant range.

Digitising your X-ray facility is a great opportunity to update your existing facilities, so that the necessary modifications can be made to ensure that new standards and legal requirements are met, and technical optimisation is assured. In this case, you need to consider the following points:

• Is an appropriate image display device available? (i.e. an approved and compatible combination of PC and software)
• Is there a voice intercom to communicate with patients, and a lead glass observation window?
• Is there a need to install radiation protection material?
• Is there a need to plan for new radiation protection arrangements?

If any of the above need to be improved or modified, our product portfolio includes the appropriate solutions and we’re always available to help you decide on the right solution for your facility.

Even if your X-ray system needs to be completely replaced, the questions we’ve posed here will still be relevant, and should be taken into account when planning new installations. The old unit will also need to be dismantled, for reuse elsewhere or disposal.

The premises are a critical factor in planning the entire process. This is definitely a complex undertaking that requires the appropriate technical expertise. Our expertly-qualified technical staff are available to advise you on the right solution to meet your personal needs and specifications.