General practitioner veterinarians, if they’ve used fluoroscopy at all, are probably familiar with large, C-arm type systems. However, as with many types of technology, some fluoroscopy units have become smaller and more affordable. Here are a few things to consider prior to a veterinary fluoroscopy purchase…
Is Veterinary Fluoroscopy High Radiation?
To answer this question accurately, it’s always important to check the specifications for the exact machine you’re using or purchasing.
With that in mind, one important parameter is whether the generator uses continuous or pulsed x-ray exposures. Continuous generators (more common with older technology) produce constant x-ray output during a live x-ray video.
Pulsed generators, on the other hand, produce x-rays in shorter bursts. Each “pulse” would be equivalent to a frame in the video. For newer models, the x-ray output can also be lower per exposure. Speaking specifically of the DynaVue system (a 2-in-1 fluoroscopy x-ray machine), JPI reports that one second of fluoroscopy exposure produces a lower x-ray dose (lower mAs) than a traditional, still x-ray exposure over the same amount of time.
As you can imagine, especially for longer fluoroscopy videos, total exposure time adds up whether the generator is continuous or pulsed. So, it’s always important to practice radiation safety, no matter which veterinary fluoroscopy system you are using.
A Digital Fluoroscopy Machine with a Table Versus a C-Arm Unit
In some cases—such as for use in a surgery suite or for horizontal beam procedures—a C-arm unit may be required. However, there are many cases in which a combination fluoroscopy x-ray machine is more convenient.
One of the advantages of this newer technology is the smaller, more compact size. Space at some veterinary hospitals can be at a premium, especially when making room for large equipment.
A combination unit is nice because it offers both digital x-rays and a digital fluoroscopy machine in the same piece of equipment, rather than requiring space for two separate machines. Plus, a vet can switch between the two modalities without moving the patient.
Another advantage is cost, since there’s no need to purchase two separate machines.
Can a Veterinarian Perform Surgery on the Table of a Fluoroscopy X-Ray Machine?
An x-ray or fluoroscopy table isn’t an appropriate substitute for a full surgery table and suite.
However, certain minimally invasive procedures could be performed on the table, with the aid of fluoroscopy.
It may help to think of the table similarly to a table in the treatment area of a veterinary hospital. Some procedures could be performed there, but it’s not appropriate for open, aseptic surgeries.
With any new technology, there are bound to be questions. When in doubt, it never hurts to ask the vendor for specifications on the model in which you are interested, or to seek a consultation with a radiologist for specific advice on radiation safety at your practice.
