Getting Started
Whether you're upgrading your existing x-ray system or building a new digital x-ray room, there are several factors to consider before making a selection. It might be tough to know where to begin, as x-rays are such an essential element of a Chiropractic clinic and also a significant investment.
The objective of this document is to provide you with all of the information needed to become an expert in digital x-ray. We hope you enjoy it and, if you have any additional queries, please do not hesitate to contact us.
New X-ray Room Vs X-ray Retrofit
The first issue you must address is which product you'll need for your practice. The majority of Chiropractors may select from two alternatives. You might be starting a new business, expanding another location, or replacing an outdated x-ray technology. In that case, you will be investing in a new digital x-ray system entirely. Those who have a working x-ray system and are looking to transition away from film and chemicals, or those who possess older digital technology such as CR or DR panels would be retrofitting your present x-ray system.
If you're looking to buy a new x-ray system, we recommend that you read the full guide since there are several things to think about when starting a new x-ray room. We go through all of the essential topics, such as electrical wiring and space requirements.
If you're just looking for an x-ray retrofit (upgrading to digital x-ray), go to the section on DR panels, which will discuss the many forms, sizes, and pricing options.
There's also one more option to consider. We have customers who already have an x-ray system, but it is producing poor images on larger patients. In some cases, we've seen businesses replace everything completely and start from scratch, yet that old x-ray machine may still have a lot of life in it and you just need to replace some of the parts to improve its performance.
In many cases, the x-ray system's construction is in good shape, but by upgrading the tube, wires, and generator, you may significantly enhance your x-ray system for a fraction of the cost of purchasing a whole new one. If you install a new DR panel, you can have a fully digital x-ray system.
If your x-ray equipment is more than three years old, it will require some research to determine what parts may need to be changed, so please contact our staff if you find yourself in this scenario.
Types of X-Ray Equipment & Cost
There are many different x-ray equipment options, and the choice will ultimately be determined by how you plan to use the x-ray machine, the size of your x-ray room, and available electrical power. While there are numerous choices for x-ray machines, we'll concentrate on the most popular in Chiropractic. The x-ray equipment that is generally employed in a Chiropractic practice differs significantly from that used in an imaging center or hospital. It has to do with the sorts of x-rays taken, the patient volume, and pricing.
This guide provides information about the following systems:
- Traditional Chiropractic X-Ray Room (most common set up)
- Chiropractic X-Ray Room with a Tilting Wall Stand
- Straight-Arm X-Ray Systems
- Double L Frame Systems
- Mobile / Portable X-Ray
We've seen patients that have used the more conventional x-ray machine utilized in imaging centers or urgent care clinics. These are more typically found with Chiropractors who specialize in integrative medicine or treat a lot of extremities. Please contact us or download the guide for X-Ray rooms that cover more of these systems if you want to learn more about them.
Traditional Digital Chiropractic X-Ray Room
A traditional digital Chiropractic x-ray room typically contains the following components:
- Wall Stand
- X-Ray Generator (32Kw or 40Kw)
- Tube Stand (Floor Mounted or Wall Mounted)
- X-ray Tube
- Collimator
- DR Digital Panel
The cost of a traditional digital Chiropractic x-ray room typically ranges from $34,000 to $38,000. This cost includes the DR panel.
Wall Stand
The x-ray wall stand is where the x-ray image capturing devices, such as a CR cassette or film-based cassette, are placed. The wall stands are generally 19 inches long and 19 inches wide, fitting up to a 17 x 17 inch DR panel. There are older wall stands that have been able to support complete spine films, however, because there is now x-ray stitching software that can be done by taking segmental x-rays, they are no longer manufactured.
Typically, a wall stand will include a locking mechanism to allow the cassette tray to freely move up and down the stand. Electric locks are used in most cases. A grid is also included with most wall stands.
X-Ray Generator
The x-ray generator is the engine that powers the x-ray system and determines how much power is required to generate an x-ray image. Generators have a wide range of capabilities, but Chiropractors commonly acquire systems with a capacity of 32kW or 40kW. The more powerful generator will have a greater amount of dosage, allowing for clearer pictures in larger patients. A 32kW system is sufficient for most consumers, however if your patient demographics are bigger, you might want to go with a 40kW system.
The operator console is another component of the x-ray generator. This is where you would operate the x-ray machine. Anatomical Programming is one option for the operator console. You may select an anatomical area of the body and have it recommended to you which x-ray technique would be required in this instance. You would have to manually choose the x-ray technique by inputting the KV, MaS, and MA if it isn't included.
Tube Stand (Floor Mounted or Wall Mounted)
The tube stand holds the tube and collimator, which directs the x-ray beam to the wall mount where the digital detector is located. The tube stand may be wall or floor-mounted. The tube stand will shift back and forth from the wall stand, where a typical x-ray is either done at 72 SID or 40 SID for different anatomical regions.
X-Ray Tube
An x-ray tube is a type of energy converter that transforms electrical power supplied by the generator into two additional types of energy: x-radiation (1%) and heat (99%). The conversion process generates heat, which is considered a bad by-product; therefore photons are produced by converting the electrons' energy into light. The x-ray tube is where the process of energy conversion known as ionization begins.
The x-ray tube may be designed in a variety of ways, however the most popular provided by Chiropractors is the 140,000 heat unit, which you can upsize if required.
Collimator
The Collimator is coupled to the tubestand and allows the operator to limit the x-ray beam to a certain area. If you're taking a cervical x-ray photo, for example, you may wish to restrict the x-ray beam to that particular region with the collimator. A light can be used to see the collimated area, which will show where the x-ray or radiation will go. A laser may also come with some collimators to assist you in accurately placing the x-ray tube over the patient's body.
Chiropractic Room with Tilting Wall Stand
There are various types of Chiropractic rooms with a moving wall stand, but they all have the same goal: to allow the wall stand to shift directions. This is utilized for taking extremity x-rays and other Chiropractic therapies such as NUCCA or Upper Cervical x-ray.
The Vertex Tilting wall stand will move into a horizontal position in order for the x-ray cabinet to be level. This will make it simpler to take extremities. This is frequently seen in Chiropractic offices that don't want or need a separate table for extremities or are seeking the versatility of performing tilting x-rays.
The entire device is comparable to what was described in the Traditional Chiropractic X-ray Room, with one exception: a rotating tube stand will be required for the tube to span multiple angles.
IMPORTANT NOTE: When contemplating a system of this sort, keep in mind if you live on the second floor of a building that has a lower level, it may be necessary to line the floor with lead.
Cost Range: $37-42k (Including DR panel)
Straight-Arm X-Ray System
A straight-arm method is an excellent choice for a Chiropractor who has a limited x-ray room capacity and seeks a system that is simple to operate and guarantees better x-ray alignment. This sort of mechanism is simpler to use than the traditional straight-arm approach, and it results in improved x-ray alignment. It's a great choice for practitioners with limited space.
Cost Range: $ (Including DR panel)
Traditional Straight-Arm
The typical straight-arm has a single stand, which supports the tube, collimator, and cabinet where the DR panel is located. The straight-arm may be adjusted vertically and horizontally. It's adaptable to both 72 SID and 40 SID. One of the advantages of using a traditional straight arm is that it allows for the addition of a mobile table.
CDR Straight Arm
This is a new system, introduced to the market in 2021. It's another great choice for Chiropractors with little space and who want an easy-to-use device.
The CDR is a smaller and more transportable system that includes all of the features of the bigger model, such as software integration, magnetic brake locks, 40kW generator, LED collimator, and a detachable grid. This x-ray device can be used in almost any x-ray room because it minimizes installation time considerably.
The only disadvantage of this unit is that it has a fixed 40 SID, which will limit its ability to shoot 72 SID images for cervical laterals. If you're a doctor who shoots only at 40 SIDs, this would be an excellent compact choice as an alternative to the conventional x-ray set up.
Double L Frame Systems
The Double L Frame x-ray system is often used in offices that practice NUCCA, Upper Cervical, and Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP). When taking and measuring x-rays, laser accuracy is required. The x-ray system's alignment is precise and consistent with each examination thanks to the Double L Frame.
Cost Range: $60-80k (Including DR panel)
Mobile/Portable X-ray System
A mobile or portable x-ray equipment may be a fantastic alternative for Chiropractors wanting to relocate their x-ray equipment from place to place. Some clients want to use a portable x-ray device as an alternative to the additional expense of lead lining an x-ray room. While this is possible, it's not advised to use mobile or portable x-rays if you wish to keep the x-ray system in the same room because you will need lead shielding comparable to that of a conventional x-ray room.
Some of the portable x-ray systems on the market include:
- MinX-ray HF140
- SourceRay Portable X-ray
- AMX4 Portable X-ray
- Patient Image Portable X-ray
- PatientImage Handheld X-ray
- Fuji FDR Portable X-ray
A portable x-ray machine's advantages include the capacity to go from room to room or even on trips. However, one of the disadvantages is that a portable x-ray does not have the same amount of x-ray radiation as a traditional x-ray equipment. The majority of portable x-ray equipment operates on batteries or 110v electricity, which is not the same as a regular x-ray machine that requires 100 amps.
Cost Range: $60-80k (Including DR panel)
X-Ray Generator and Options
The x-ray generator is the engine that generates electricity for the tube to generate x-rays. There are numerous choices when looking at generators, as well as features. When choosing which generator is ideal for your business, consider the sorts of x-rays you perform and your patient populations. As an illustration, if you're just taking cervical x-rays it won’t require a lot of power and a basic generator will suffice. In comparison, if you are dealing with a larger-than-average patient who needs lumbar x-rays and your generator can only produce a limited dosage to penetrate deeper masses, you should upgrade to a greater capacity generator.
On average, we find that most of our clients opt for a 32kW system since it delivers acceptable picture quality and is the most cost-effective. Those who want to spend a little more to obtain higher-quality pictures, especially lumbar, should upgrade to a 40KW system.
Generator Size
The average Chiropractor will utilize a 32kW generator or upgrade to 40kW if required, as previously stated. Generators with powers ranging from 50kW to 70kW are available. However, these are generally only found in hospitals or large imaging centers, and it is unusual to see one in a Chiropractic practice.
The size of the generator is another major concern to consider. When comparing generators, be sure to compare their sizes and output ratings in relation to your business's electricity demand. A bigger generator will require more power, which will affect how you achieve your goal.
Stored Energy Generator
In most situations, a typical Chiropractic setup should have 100 amps set aside for the x-ray system. Single or three-phase power is acceptable, but due to cost savings, we usually recommend single phase. If your workplace or facility is unable to provide you with this type of incoming power, it does not necessarily imply that you can't have an x-ray and must pay thousands to upgrade the electrical. We've seen people pay $10,000+ for electrical modifications in their practice, which is a compelling incentive to ask your landlord before accepting the lease if there is any power available. If not, they might be willing to pay as a tenant improvement. However, this is tough to negotiate after the lease has been signed.
So, if your office does not have enough incoming power, we also offer a Stored Energy generator that works with a standard 110v outlet and requires no extra equipment. There are several compelling reasons other than the lack of need to upgrade the power supply, such as whether you ever intend to relocate the x-ray machine.
The disadvantage of a stored energy system is that it uses batteries to power it, which store energy and then release them into the tube. These batteries have a 5-8 year lifespan and must be replaced at some point. Replacing the battery might cost anywhere from a hundred to a thousand dollars, depending on current market pricing for batteries.
Another disadvantage of stored energy is that it is more expensive, typically by $3-5k. Another issue you might run into with the stored energy generator is taking a lot of x-rays in a row because if you drain the batteries, they must be recharged. Something to keep in mind when choosing a Chiropractor: many don't notice this because they are not seeing hundreds of people at a time.
Anatomical Programming
An x-ray necessitates the use of the correct procedure, which involves KVp, MA, and MaS. This technique can be manually input into the generator. There are generally anatomical programming options on most newer generators, which are predefined settings for each anatomic region. You simply choose the anatomical region and view, and the generator will give you the estimated dose that must be used to obtain the optimum x-ray.
In some instances, however, you may still want to fine-tune the method in order to obtain the best image quality. This might also be influenced by the type of digital panel being used and whether the generator has been properly set up and maintained.
Types of DR Digital Panels
The term "digital x-ray" refers to a technology known as Direct Radiography, which allows you to snap digital x-rays. In the last 15 years, DR panels have developed a long way and are now available in a variety of shapes and sizes, although they remain cassette sized on the whole. This means that a conventional x-ray system with film-based cassettes can be quickly adapted to use a cassette-sized flat panel DR equipment.
The following options are available with DR panels at this time:
DR Panel Size: 14X17 or 17X17
Wired vs. Wireless
CSI Cesium vs Gadox
To integrate the x-ray and DR panels, we recommend purchasing them as two separate systems. There are choices for a completely integrated DR and x-ray system, although they are more often found in hospital and huge imaging center settings. The price is higher, as is the warranty. When you buy a standalone x-ray system and then combine it with a DR panel, you will receive the greatest value for your money and pay less for the ongoing guarantee.
Size, Connection & Technology
Today, DR digital x-ray panels come in a variety of sizes. The options for the Chiropractic market are:
17 x 17 Tethered
17 x 17 Wireless
14 x 17 Wireless
The 17 x 17 size is ideal for Chiropractors since the DR panel will generally stay in the cassette tray and not depart. Unlike an urgent care or imaging center, most Chiropractors do not have a table on which they would move the DR panel from one place to another.
This is also why a tethered system is the preferred mode of communication for a Chiropractor. The advantages of using a tethered system include that it is typically less expensive and does not require batteries, as does the wireless system. Batteries are covered only for one year by most manufacturers, with replacement costs reaching up to $500.
The advantage of a wireless DR panel is that it may be placed on a table, allowing Chiropractors who do a lot of extremities to utilize it. The tethered system is more difficult to transfer between a wall stand and a table, and extremities are more challenging. A few Chiropractors will simply utilize the wall stand to treat extremities, while others will purchase a system like the tilting wall stand to make it easier to do extremities without removing the DR panel from the wall stand.
The rear-view mirror is made of TFT glass, which may shatter if dropped or banged against sufficiently. Repair costs up to $6,000 if the TFT breaks, and much more if there is additional damage. Many manufacturers provide a drop protection guarantee; however, it is often paired with a high deductible. If there is a fall or damage, most Chiropractors will opt to have the panel covered under their general commercial insurance policy since the replacement or repair may be costly. This is another reason why we advocate keeping the panel in the wall stand as much as possible, since it will protect both the panel and its length of life.
When looking at DR panels, you should be aware of two types of panel technology. The newest and best technology available is called Cesium (Csi), which is also known as Gadolinium (GADOX). This is the more recent and traditional technology. In the past, manufacturers would provide both choices, with the GADOX being cheaper but requiring more x-ray radiation and resulting in lower image quality. CESIUM technology delivers higher image quality and reduced patient dose. The cost of Cesium CSI has approached that of GADOX in recent years, so most manufacturers merely provide Cesium detectors. Because Cesium offers superior technology at the same price point, you want to make sure you don't get the older GADOX or Gadolinium technologies since having the newest technology is preferable.
Image Storage & Back-up
The digital x-ray detector or DR panel is your acquisition device. It's the technology that takes an x-ray picture and then displays it on a computer screen. After you've taken the shot, the next step is to properly preserve, view, and discuss it. The following are three features to consider when purchasing a digital x-ray:
- PACS System / Mini-PACS
- Cloud Based Back-up and storage
- Image Sharing
PACS System / Mini-PACS
A PACS system is a technical term for a picture archiving and communication system. It's software that keeps your digital x-ray pictures in DICOM format, making it the standard image format for x-rays. The images may then be examined using web or client viewers to see the x-ray image in different locations within your practice.
When you alter an image or make measurements in the PACS, they will be seen in all of your viewing locations.
Cloud Based Back-up and Storage
Another consideration to keep in mind with digital x-rays is that the x-ray pictures should be properly backed up and have a sufficient amount of storage available. A typical x-ray image is 15-20MB, therefore you'll need a server with enough capacity to store those photos for at least 7 years, as mandated by HIPAA.
Cloud based back-up offers great storage options:
- Cloud Based Back-up
- Cloud Based PACS
A cloud-based backup is a third-party program such as DropBox that makes sure your digital x-ray computer is backed up on a regular basis. This is an excellent backup plan that can be reasonably priced. The cloud-based PACS allows you to not only back up your pictures, but also to access them from anywhere in the world.
Image Sharing
As previously stated, a cloud-based PACS allows you to view your x-rays from anywhere in the world in a secure environment. One of the advantages of using a cloud-based PACS is that most will be able to exchange images. The software is simple to use, and the interface makes it easy for users with minimal technical knowledge. The program allows patients, referring physicians, or radiologists to examine images on a computer screen.
In the past, most clinics burned a CD for each patient and gave it to him or her. This is still a standard feature in many technologies. However, in 2022, obtaining a laptop computer with a CD-ROM drive is difficult. CD technology is becoming less popular, and we frequently encounter patients who want to see their pictures online rather than on a disc. Our solution gives you the most up-to-date technological alternatives for your patients.
How to View X-rays
The first step in interpreting x-rays is to take them. The next question you'll have is how you'll view the results. Most Chiropractic offices provide a specific Report of Findings (ROF) room, where they may show patients images on a personal computer and monitor. A TV connected to a computer might be used by some customers to view in larger format. You may want to check if the system you're buying includes a cloud or web-based viewer or a desktop application viewer that can be installed in other rooms to view the photos in multiple rooms, as some deals fail to include this.
A viewer is just one component of the scheme. We touched upon this previously when we discussed what a PACS system is. In most situations, this PACS system will be utilized as the main database for your viewer in other rooms to access and view those pictures. Now that you know how digital x-rays are stored and managed, let's investigate the important elements of viewing them:
- Viewing images in multiple rooms
- Available tools for Chiropractic measurements
- An explanation of full-spine stitching
Viewing Options
Systems are typically sold with a set number of viewing licenses. Concurrent licensing is when the number is based on the total number of users logged in at once, while per-seat licensing is how many computers the viewer is actually installed on. Web-based PACS or cloud-based PACS may also give you the choice of seeing x-rays from anywhere.
Regardless of the license configuration that comes with your digital x-ray system, you'll want to make sure it has enough concurrent licenses or seat licenses to meet your demands. You should also verify that it includes a PACS system so that when you move from room to room, you will see the same pictures and any modifications saved.
We spoke about a desktop computer as a possible viewer, but many consumers choose a laptop or touchscreen tablet PC to view the photos in their homes. It's an excellent choice if you only want to use one computer and move from room to room. You may also connect your laptop or tablet to a TV using an HDMI connection if you wish.
The Chiropractor will provide you with a variety of diagnostic tools in order to adjust the picture, take measurements, and alter the brightness and contrast of an image. Unlike film, you have access to more controls and techniques to make an over or underexposed x-ray appear much better by using filters and other tools.
Chiropractic Tools
There are a variety of Chiropractic tools on the market from various vendors, and you should think about which ones are essential to you while comparing them. The majority of digital x-ray systems available in the marketplace include some form of Chiropractic measurement tools.
Most Chiropractors utilize the same tools, however here are other specialized Chiropractic procedures that are aided by additional software such as NUCCA, Upper Cervical, Blair, Chiropractic BioPhysics (CBP), and more.
Our software allows you to save and then view Chiropractic measurements in different rooms. These measures may also be shown or hidden while reviewing the image with a patient. Please contact us if you have specific Chiropractic tool set demands, and we'll be happy to provide recommendations for the best software for your needs.
Full-Spine Stitching
If you wanted to examine a full-spine x-ray before digital x-ray, you'd need a lengthy film cassette and only one photo. The problem with this is that the technique used for cervical vs thoracic vs lateral needs to be different. With digital x-ray, you can now capture segmented x-rays of each area and then combine them into a whole spine picture thanks to software stitching. This will result in a considerably higher quality image than previous film techniques permitted.
The stitching program will let you select two pictures and stitch them together once you've completed each sectional picture. Some software may auto-stitch the two images, aligning them as best as possible to appear like a complete spine image. Other software will need you to drag and drop or relocate the two photos in order for it to create a full spine picture.
New Vs. Used Digital X-Ray
Used digital x-ray systems are becoming more popular, and many Chiropractors are looking for them as a method to make going digital less expensive. For some individuals, this might be a significant money saver. However, many others wind up regretting their purchases because it's a gamble and there are no warranties. We'll go through some of the advantages of used and new machines while also offering suggestions on how to save time and money.
Used X-ray
Customers choose used digital x-ray equipment for a variety of reasons, the most common being cost and the ability to save money. However, there are certain things to consider while purchasing used digital x-ray equipment.
What is the cost of maintenance over time compared to purchasing a new system with warranty? The majority of new systems come with a 5-year warranty, which is critical. When you're comparing used equipment savings, remember to include all costs over 10-20 years. If you buy a system that will require a lot of upkeep, you might wind up spending more on a used system than on a new one.
Financing – If you want to finance a used x-ray system, most lenders will refuse to lend money on such equipment.
There are a few more things to examine before purchasing used digital x-ray.
What is the cost of removing, transporting, and reinstalling the used x-ray?
Is it working? Has the x-ray machine been stored in storage for a long time? If you can't show that the equipment works before you buy it, you'll have to spend extra money to make it work. Regular use of x-ray machines also makes them run more smoothly.
Are all of the components included? Many consumers have purchased a used x-ray machine only to discover that a rail or component is missing, resulting in the machine becoming useless.
When it comes to purchasing used x-ray, there are a few things that we always advise our clients against:
If you can locate a 15-year-old or older used x-ray machine that is still in operating condition, it might be a fantastic bargain. However, we recommend combining it with a new DR panel because technology has advanced over the years and the piece isn't as good as it once was.
Don't use CR systems or older DR panel technology, such as Naomi or other CCD detectors. If the panel manufacturer has gone out of business, this is especially true. CR digital systems and DR digital panels with CCR or GADOX are obsolete technologies.
Although used x-ray technology is a viable alternative, we have heard numerous horrible problems and seen buyers' remorse from previous clients that have come to us for modern machines.
If you're seeking a used x-ray, feel free to reach out to us during your search. We can assist you to evaluate the equipment and offer an estimate of value as well as a candid opinion on if it's a solid buy.
How to Plan - Adding a Complete Digital X-ray Project
The process of adding an x-ray machine to your office and purchasing a digital x-ray is exciting. Our packages include our project management services, so we'll be able to help you every step of the way on your x-ray project. There are several stages in creating a new digital x-ray room, and we'll go through them below:
- Location and Room Size Requirements
- Electrical Requirements
- Equipment Room Drawing
- Lead Shielding Report
- Room Build-out
- Equipment shipping and delivery
- On-site Installation and training
- FDA and State Registration
Location & Room Size Requirements
The first step is to figure out what sort of equipment your practice will need and choose a location that is suitable for the x-ray equipment. Site planning regulations may differ by state, so please contact a Patient Image sales representative for specific information at sales@patientimage.com. You may reach a Customer Care Representative at (800) 257-3013 directly.
The x-ray room may be set up anywhere on your premises. The ideal position for the x-ray room is a corner with two outside walls. This will save you money on the lead lining. It's better if there's only one door and no windows. If there are any, you'll need to think about where they're placed and how big they are. To see the collimator light field for patient positioning, you'll need shades to block out more light.
The size of the room will vary; it is dependent on the sort of Chiropractic clinic. The following are some basic room measurements to help you save space and improve your x-ray department's efficiency.
The dimensions of a standard Chiropractor room is 12’ x 10’ and includes:
- Wall Unit
- Wall mounted tube stand
- HF generator
- Control room to stand in with Computer and monitor
Electrical Requirements
Power Supply for a Standard or High-Frequency Generator:
- Before purchasing property or signing a lease, check to see whether the site has enough power.
- All wiring and ground connections should be in accordance with the National Electric Code or a comparable local ordinance.
Power Supply High Frequency:
If the building does not already have adequate power, you might be able to negotiate a reduction in the cost of having it supplied. The disconnect box is identical, but the actual energy demands differ as shown below.
General Electrical Requirements for High-Frequency X-Ray:
Please note that this is a broad illustration. Each manufacturer has its own set of requirements, so please contact us to confirm your particular package electrical specifications.
The required power is 208/240 VAC Single Phase Power (3 phase power upgrade options available), with about 100 amps allocated to the X-Ray room.
- Disconnect box
- 208 VAC, 100 Plus Amp service
- Any line voltage below 212 VAC will require a step-up transformer Line Interconnect: L1 - L2 - Ground (2 hot, 1 ground)
- Mount bottom of disconnect box 60" from floor
- Recommended wire size: (from disconnect box to distribution panel)
- 50' - #0 Copper 00' - #000 Copper 150'-MCM 250 Copper
- Distribution Transformer KVA - 37.5
- A dead-man type of exposure switch shall be provided and so arranged that it cannot be conveniently operated outside a shielded area {California Administrative Code, Title 17, Division 1, Chapter 5, Subchapter 4, Group 3, Article 4, § 30308 (A)(5)}
- Inadequate power could prevent the x-ray unit from operating within its state specifications and from meeting federal and state requirements.
We provide several packages for installation in accordance with the amount of energy available at your workplace. When you know the quantity of energy accessible to your office, please contact us so that we may help you select the most cost-effective combination.
Equipment Room Drawings
A room drawing is included as part of every X-ray installation in Patient Image to assist you with the best room design. Throughout the project, our expert team will assist you in saving time and money. The duration from when data on the structure and equipment is collected until delivery is usually 3-5 working days.
Lead-time details:
Initial room drawing created for the physicist report detailing the lead shielding that will be required.
Another room drawing created to provide the contractors with a more detailed layout for the walls, door, electrical and low voltage details.
Delivery and installation is completed.
Lead Shielding requirements
Before work on the room may begin, a shielding report from a certified physicist must be supplied, along with detailed information on each wall, door, and window's lead shielding requirements. Once you have it in your hands, you can pass it on to the contractor and calculate the cost. For your project, we may assist in connecting with physicists who can assist you.
Following is a sample room drawing and the information for a lead shielding report:
- Recommended size for lead windows
- Chiropractic 12” x 12”
When making an exposure, the operator must stay behind a shielding lead screen. The exact specifications for this defensive shield will differ from state to state. Inquire with your state's department of health for the most up-to-date details. Cement block walls or lead-lined walls might be used as shields.
X-ray Room Build-Out
We can assist you and your contractor with the build-out project, as well as help you access the lead materials, once we get the physicist's report. We take care of everything from beginning to end. Our crew comes out after the construction is finished to install the system and conduct training, at which point you're up and running and ready to shoot x-rays.
FDA and State Registration
Every X-ray equipment must be registered with your state's health department. To locate this information, search for your x-ray radiography department by state. We can also help you with this data, and it will often appear in your physicist report as soon as we obtain it for you.
Your state department will submit an FDA Form 2579 to the FDA. After the X-ray room installation is finished, we will complete the FDA form. A copy of the form is also given to you for your records.
Next Steps & Additional Resources
We hope you found this information useful. We're excited to assist you with your x-ray project in any way we can. Please get in touch with our staff if you have any questions, and we'll be happy to assist you.
Email: sales@patientimage.com
Phone: (800) 257-3013