Wireless, Cassette-Size DR Detector Designed to Fit Existing X-Ray Rooms without Modification

A new digital radiography (DR) system is the first wireless DR detector--the size of a standard cassette--that fits existing X-ray rooms without having to replace or modify existing equipment.

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) gave marketing clearance to the DRX-1 system, developed by Carestream Health, Inc. (Rochester, NY, USA). With this clearance, Carestream Health can begin accepting orders for the product. Shipping begins end of April 2009, following trade trials and other preparations that are underway.

The system incorporates a console and a wireless 35 x 43 cm cassette-size DR detector that provides a rapid, cost-effective conversion for users of radiographic film or computed radiography (CR) systems. Since the system requires no modifications to existing film-based equipment, installation costs are modest--and healthcare facilities can utilize one detector for nearly all types of exams where a conventional cassette would be used. The DRX-1 system provides high-quality preview images in approximately five seconds, which significantly improves productivity, even for users of CR systems.

"This innovative wireless detector presents an extremely attractive option for facilities that want to improve productivity and image quality in existing film or CR rooms, but do not have the budget for equipment replacement," said Diana L. Nole, president, digital medical solutions, Carestream Health. "No modifications to existing X-ray systems are needed, and facilities can continue to use the Bucky with CR or film-based cassettes if desired. In addition, the wireless functionality of the DRX-1 can improve efficiency by allowing a much more flexible workflow to meet the specialized needs of each individual facility."

Because this DR detector is a wireless cassette, it provides flexible positioning that enhances both efficiency and patient comfort. The detector can be used wherever it is needed--in the wall stand Bucky, table Bucky, or for tabletop shots and other difficult views. Weighing 3.85 kg, the detector is up to 30% lighter and up to 50% smaller than other portable detectors. Its compact size and lightweight further enhance convenience and throughput for radiology professionals.

Carestream Health's engineers designed the DR detector and all components within the cassette to withstand the challenging environment of a modern X-ray department. The detector, case, and internal components are designed to produce excellent quality DR images under actual X-ray department conditions.

The DRX-1 system--suitable for general radiology, trauma, orthopedics, and virtually all other X-ray exams--incorporates the same innovative software and image processing capability as Carestream Health's Kodak DirectView CR and DR systems.

A console is included with the detector to assist with image capture, preparing preview images, image processing, and full-resolution display. Images can be transmitted as Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) files to a picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) or storage device. The DR detector can be used with standard off-the-shelf grid holders and grids for tabletop use.

Carestream Health markets a wide range of CR and DR systems that equips hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, orthopedic practices, and other healthcare providers with digital image capture for X-ray imaging studies.

Carestream Health is a provider of dental and medical imaging systems and healthcare information technology (IT) solutions; molecular imaging systems for the life science research and drug discovery/development market segments; and X-ray film and digital X-ray products for the nondestructive testing market.

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