A Small Step for Wireless, A Giant Leap for Mobile X-Ray
Date: 09 December 2011

The newest generation of wireless flat panel X-ray detectors (FPD) are clearly an improvement on previous models. Boasting stronger casing, faster processing and longer battery life, these panels can clearly improve daily radiography workflow. Yet, their greatest benefit is not in their internal components, but in their method of application. The most notable beneficiary: mobile X-ray system users. Nowhere has this been more obviously displayed than at the recent Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) 2011 technical exhibition.   

 

The technology of wireless FPD for X-ray usage has been available for the last few years. A higher price tag and risk of drop damage or theft, damaged market confidence initially. Yet, the first generation of wireless panels combined unique features for digital FPD: near instant processing in a cassette format. Now, the newest generation of wireless panels has been deployed in new mobile X-ray systems, providing a recipe for market success.

 

Most notable at the exhibition were mobile systems from traditional CR providers, who have evolved to become major forces in the digital X-ray industry. Carestream Health, one of the first “pioneers” of wireless FPD panels, showcased the “DRX-Revolution Mobile” system, utilising Carestreams second generation DRX panel. AGFA Healthcare released the “DX-100 wireless” platform, using the AGFA DX D 30C wireless panel. Dominant market suppliers Philips Healthcare exhibited the “Mobile Diagnost wDR, while GE Healthcare displayed the OptimaXR220, using the new “Flashpad” wireless panel.

 

The impact of these new systems in clinical settings are clear; radiographers will no longer have to shuttle between patient bedsides and processing rooms, increasing exam time efficiency. Wireless panels also simplify patient positioning, as panels are not tethered. Digital FPD solutions also boast dose reduction benefits, especially important in clinical settings outside the radiography suite. 

 

A further step has also been made in the mechanics of these new systems. Assisted mobility, collapsible columns, touchscreen capability, minimal start up time in smaller packages will also benefit every-day users. This will aid use of mobile X-ray systems in emergency rooms and intensive care units, providing a strong argument for healthcare providers to upgrade.     

 

“Revenues for mobile X-ray equipment only account for around 10% of the global general radiography market in 2011 ” commented Stephen Holloway, Market Analyst at InMedica. “This new breed of wireless digital systems is projected to drive strong market growth, between 10-15% over the next 3 years - a just reward for suppliers who listened to end-user needs and produced innovative products to aid everyday exams”.

 

Stephen Holloway is lead analyst for Medical Imaging research at InMedica, and author of InMedica’s global reports on ultrasound and X-ray equipment. For more details, please visit www.in-medica.com. 

Editors Note :

For more information please contact: Theo Ahadome , InMedica T: +44 (0) 1933 40 22 55 theo.ahadome@in-medica.com

About InMedica :

InMedica is the brand name of IMS Research’s medical research group. We publish high quality, in-depth market research on Clinical Care Devices, Consumer Medical Devices, Medical Imaging & Healthcare IT and Telehealth. We offer our clients complete coverage of the global market, with dedicated reports on high growth regions, such as China, Eastern Europe and the Middle East. To find out more, contact InMedica: enquiries@in-medica.com; T: +44 (0) 1933 402255; www.in-medica.com