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A D V A N C E D
I M A G I N G
QUICK LOOK
C-arms (and all the features that came
10 3D C-arm Features
with them). With a price tag typically
• 3D imaging and datasets
running between $200,000 to $300,000
while retaining 2D fluo-
(depending on the configuration that's
roscopy capabilities
right for your facility), yes, it's expensive.
• module compatibility with a
But we love the features and the future
range of C-arms
possibilities.
• targeted radiation to minimize exposure to patients
Everyday use
and the surgical team
When you buy a 3D C-arm, you don't
• larger field-of-view capture
lose regular fluoroscopic imaging capa-
• digital, flat-panel detectors
bilities. Rather, it's a module that you
that improve contrast and
activate separately, when you need it. So
image rendering
in our facility, the C-arm itself gets used
• elliptical and circular scan
every day for spine procedures. For
capabilities
those, it's the usual 2 views — AP and
• more accurate fixation of
lateral.
hardware in the spine
Three-dimensional imaging is ideal for
• improved first-pass accura-
orthopedic and spine surgery, neuro-
cy
surgery, bone trauma procedures, and
• potentially faster procedures
oral and maxillofacial surgery. We use it
• small footprint
for spine. Right now, about 3 times a
— Will Chestnut, RT week, the surgeons will request use of
the 3D module for a lumbar, cervical or
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O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E | M A R C H 2013
