Anyone who wants to buy a new X-Ray machine today is initially confronted with a multitude of challenges. In addition to costs and financing, the question of the right technology or the right manufacturer also plays a role.
However, it is gradually getting harder to resist switching to a digital X-ray machine. Nowadays, in order to work economically modern equipment with high image quality and fast processing is needed. Digital X-Ray devices in particular can meet these requirements, even if the conversion of analog devices offers similarly good results.
Digital or Analogue X-Ray Machine?
Today, digital X-Ray is an integral part of modern medical diagnostics. Digital X-Ray guarantees reduced radiation exposure, replaces conventional X-Ray film and simplifies the workflow. The doctor can view the high-quality X-Ray images immediately after the examination on a PC or diagnostic monitor and process them afterwards. Further advantages and disadvantages of both types of X-Ray machines are:
X-Ray Machine |
Pros |
Cons |
Analogue X-Ray Machine |
Fully developed technology |
Poorer image quality compared to new digital systems |
Relatively inexpensive |
Complicated reproduction and storage of X-Ray images |
Digital X-Ray Machine |
Simple data storage |
High acquisition costs |
Low radiation exposure of patients and personnel |
Different image formats (makes it difficult to share) |
The Right X-Ray Software
When purchasing a new X-Ray unit, you should ensure that it can be integrated into the existing practice software. Is the X-Ray unit compatible with the latest Windows version? If not, can the X-Ray machine be retrofitted? It is also important to know which programs are already integrated in the X-Ray unit or have to be purchased additionally.
Since 1995, DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) has been the standard format for archiving and distributing digital images. Using the DICOM interface, X-Ray images can be stored directly in the existing archiving software. PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) is the standardized solution for storing digital images - a digital image archiving system. Depending on the manufacturer, the system can be upgraded with additional document management features.
Used X-Ray Equipment / Trade-in
While a new purchase can quickly exceed 100,000 euros net, a used X-Ray machine that has only been in use for a few years can be found for 30 percent under the original price. It is often also possible to upgrade the analogue X-Ray unit, even if the unit has already been purchased second-hand. Many dealers therefore offer various modular upgrade options for second-hand systems. You can learn more about buying and selling used X-Ray machines here.