Technology

Through the 20th century technological advancement moved at a digestible pace. There came a point at the beginning of the 21st century when technology began moving faster than the market could adapt. How would this change the way we acquire and think about a new technology like digital X-ray?


The advantages or perceived advantages of transitioning from analog to digital are well documented. But let's take the buyer's view as they weigh a move to digital imaging.

In Standard Radiography the primary considerations are patient volume, image reimbursement and acquisition time or throughput advantages. These are reasonably common parameters when qualifying any new technology or device. In most imaging facilities, what's top of mind is broadening applications and increasing the number of patients imaged. If throughput can also be improved, then such facilities can manage the up tick in patient traffic with the same staffing.

The reciprocal is also a consideration. If throughput improves with the new equipment and the patient volume is maintained, then department staffing reductions are an option.

Secondary considerations are many. The necessity for and the impact of equipment change is more than financial. Staff has to adjust work routines and learn new operating systems. This has an immediate impact on productivity.

In addition, image storage and recall of those images is important. Although digital imaging removes the need for space, cabinets and hardcopy storage, electronic storage requires the addition of equipment and software so that these images can be recalled, manipulated and transported for viewing. All of this requires different experience and knowledge, not to mention additional outlay of capital for hardware and software.

Analog to Digital Pathway

This transition requires a change in the staff work routine, with many opting to take small steps at the outset and with a minimal disruption in patient flow.

Computed Radiography (CR) is a way to test the water before diving in. Converting to a digital signal eliminates the need for hardcopy storage and the image is now stored digitally. Moreover, the department should see improved workflow.

Next after CR is Direct Digital Radiography (DDR or DR). Using an imaging plate made from amorphous silica or selenium and sandwiched with a semiconductor device like a charged couple device (CCD), the DR plate can covert the captured X-ray energy to a charge that is read by the CCD and then converted to a digital signal.

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