3 Reasons Digital X-Ray Is A Better Option

Medical settings are always looking for better options to improve diagnoses and patient care. One improvement is the use of digital x-rays, which are a vast improvement over traditional x-rays for several reasons.

Less Radiation

With any type of imaging test, there can be concerns regarding the cumulative effects of radiation. X-ray is by far the most common form of imaging and since it is frequently used, it is better to use x-ray options that have the lowest amount of radiation. Not only is less radiation transmitted to patients who may need medical and dental x-rays throughout the year, but it reduces exposure to radiologists and technicians who manage these machines throughout the day. The lower amount of radiation is also ideal for neonates and pediatric patients who will experience cumulative radiation exposure at a faster rate than adults.

Efficiency

Digital x-ray is more efficient for many reasons. There is the option to have a mobile x-ray machine in addition to an x-ray suite, which means patients in urgent situations do not need to be moved for imaging. Medical professionals can assess the situation faster and in some cases, prioritize which injuries are most critical. Time is invaluable in trauma situations, where seconds can make a difference. In addition to more efficient imaging, the development of these images is almost instant, since they appear electronically on the computer or mobile device. Digital x-rays in an imaging suite typically have a table, which can make the process of imaging more comfortable and accommodate a wider array of patients with physical limitations or differences in sizes. Since the process is more accommodating, patients may not need to be referred to another center for imaging and there is less concern about the need to repeat x-rays.

Clarity

Traditional x-ray film is prone to problems, whether the image quality is poor or problems occur when the film is developed. Since digital images are of better quality, there are fewer problems with bad images. Additionally, digital images can be manipulated for better viewing. Much like a photograph, a radiologist might change the contrast or lighten/darken the image. This can make it easier to see ailments that are easily overlooked, such as hairline fractures, or soft tissues might come into view. Sometimes radiologists are able to see distinctive shadows on clear radiographs, which could be consistent with a soft tissue tumor or other abnormalities that would otherwise be overlooked.

Digital x-ray provides a way for medical professionals to streamline the process of imaging and reduce the incidence of errors. Contact a provider, like VXS Imaging, for more help.

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