Digital radiography in veterinary medicine.
Direct digital radiography is currently the most modern type of digital X-ray imaging system.
Direct Radiography
DR panels replace digital indirect (CR) systems and address their associated drawbacks.
In direct radiography (DR), radiation is recorded on a digital detector, converted into visible light by a scintillator, and transmitted directly to a computer, hence the name.
Acquisition speed
The biggest advantage, of course, is the time required to take an X-ray image. The entire process, from exposure to image display, takes approximately 3 seconds.
Obtaining an image immediately is especially important during surgery, allowing us to continuously monitor its progress.
Hardware endurance
Another advantage of the direct system is the lack of moving parts (as in CR scanners), which significantly reduces the risk of faults.
A DR panel stored and used in a safe manner, in a table with a drawer, should function for many years without the need to servicing.
Image quality
Another characteristic of direct radiography is the maintenance of high image quality over time. This avoids the additional costs associated with replacing cassettes.
The phosphor plates used in CR systems wear out and require replacement due to significant deterioration in image quality.
How to choose the right system for me?
When presenting an offer, we usually assume that doctors already have basic knowledge. For those less experienced in radiography, we suggest what to consider.
The choice depends on the type of practice. For large animals requiring mobility, we choose a wireless system. In other cases, we choose a wired system.
However, there are practices where images are taken on the examination table or the system is moved between two rooms. There are also doctors who simply dislike cables and choose a wireless system in their stationary practice.
If this isn't your case, we recommend a wired system, which is less expensive.
The choice depends on the type of practice. For larger animals, choose a smaller, more manageable panel. This is most often a model the size of a standard CR cassette, measuring 35x43 cm.
In a stationary practice, the panel is permanently stored in a drawer, so it's best to choose the maximum possible display area, i.e., 43x43 cm.
A substance that converts radiation into visible light. Models are available on the market containing cesium iodide (CsI) or gadolinium oxysulfide (gadox).
"Cesium" detectors provide sharper, more accurate images, while "gadolinium" detectors are more durable. We strongly recommend cesium detectors.
As with any electronic device, the longer the warranty, the better. It's worth considering paid warranty extensions if the seller offers them.
It's worth paying attention to the socket connecting the panel to the computer and the power supply. Any type of traditional plug exposes the socket to damage, tearing, or loosening.
A magnetic socket is the safest; it disconnects when the cable is pulled, without causing damage to the device.
It's best if the hardware (detector) and software (image capture and processing software) are manufactured by the same company. They know their hardware inside and out and quickly release updates with bug fixes and improvements.
The application has higher performance and is precisely matched to the components, minimizing conflicts and increasing stability.
Time is important not only when making your first purchase. Over the course of its life, you may need to replace batteries or other components that become damaged.
Short delivery times and low costs are crucial. It's also important to ensure replacement equipment is guaranteed for the duration of the repair.
Online support is now standard. Find out the response time to your request. It's worth asking the company's customers if they are satisfied with the response time and the quality of the support offered.
Find out the cost of additional services, such as technical support and additional staff training. Also ask about the cost of accessories that wear out or may be damaged (e.g., batteries, power supplies, cables).