Power Assist Technology Positions X-Ray Tubes Effortlessly

Brand-new power assist technology designed for high-end Shimadzu Medical Systems (SMS; Kyoto, Japan) general radiography systems provides an effortless operating assistance experience, improving radiographic examination environments. The assist-level can be selected among three levels on the X-ray tube support touch panel.

The technology, called Power Glide, is designed to instantaneously sense the amount of force applied by an operator during each operation, calculate the amount of assist-force required, and activate the motors accordingly to provide smooth and comfortable control when positioning the X-ray tube. As the forces applied to the handle during operation vary from person to person, the amount of power assist that each operator feels is optimal for operations, such as for large movements or detailed positioning adjustments, differs as well.

Power Glide is available in the SMS RADspeed Pro style edition, which provides up to 800 anatomical programs that can be registered; auto-positioning can move the position and angle of the X-ray tube to the programmed position. An auto-collimator selects a proper filter according to the program selected to optimize exposure dose and image quality. For dose management, the system can automatically calculate the dose area product (DAP) value from the X-ray conditions and display at each exposure. The LCD screen and illumination color can change according to the Bucky table or X-ray tube settings selected.

The ceiling X-ray tube support ensures wide-range vertical stroke of 1600 mm to examine the whole body (up to the lower extremities) in standing position. This support also rotates on the vertical and horizontal axis in addition to fixed positioning at any desired angle, enabling fast positioning at complex angles for orthopedic applications. Options include automatic imaging stitching; gridless scatter noise removal and improved image contrast; an image processing function that helps to confirm the absence of residual instruments, like gauze and needles, and reconfirmation of catheter tip location in PICC insertion procedures.

“Shimadzu has remained committed to developing innovative technologies that minimize radiation dose, improve image quality, and ensure excellent operability, in order to supply diagnostic imaging systems for supporting those working at the front lines of healthcare throughout the world,” said the company in a press release. “This new product can help increase the productivity of busy healthcare operations and improve the working environment of medical professionals, whether at small clinics or large hospitals, while maintaining the cumulative excellences offered by previous models.”

As general radiography examinations require fine operability to position the X-ray exposure area to within a few millimeters, it requires moving the entire assembly along ceiling rails from large distances, and as result the physical burden on operators is high. Reducing operating loads by improving system ergonomics enables a smoother workflow, and also shortens the time that patients must maintain a particular body position during examinations.