Medical Equipment Blog


What makes MRI compatible medical equipment safe for use in MRI rooms?

Thursday, February 04, 2010

MRI or magnetic resonance imaging is considered to be one of the best options for many types of imaging, particularly for soft tissue. Since MRI relies on magnetic resonance without interference from objects in the room, it is absolutely essential that all MRI compatible medical equipment be non-magnetic. Stainless steel is one type of metal that is used in MRI compatible medical equipment since it doesn't cause interference that other types of metals can. In addition rubber feet on all equipment also provides a barrier to prevent any problems with MRI compatible medical equipment within any imaging environment. What options are available in MRI compatible medical equipment that are outside of the actual instrument tables and stools? Since there is such a wide use of MRI services, the demand for MRI compatible medical equipment has increased and expanded. Virtually all types of patient transport, medical equipment and even standard room equipment is now available as MRI safe. For disposal of waste materials in an MRI room the only option is to consider an MRI safe kick bucket. This specially designed waste receptacle is made of stainless steel and is non-ferrous and therefore non-magnetic. It is also further protected from any type of magnetic transmission by a rubber bumper than encircles the stand, and the complete unit is on castors that are MRI safe. Other MRI compatible medical equipment options include wheelchairs designed specifically for transporting patients inside and outside of an MRI room without requiring the patient to be transferred from one wheelchair to another. Not only does this prevent additional stress on the patient but it is also much quicker and more efficient for staff. MRI compatible medical equipment can also include walkers and stools, perfect for patient movement as well as moving onto and off of MRI tables. MRI compatible medical equipment may also be very practically designed for easy movement, cleaning and use. MRI safe basin stands are one example of equipment that has been designed specifically to provide both a basin as well as a shelf all on rolling MRI approved castors. How is MRI compatible medical equipment tested and identified? In order to be considered MRI compatible medical equipment the specific instrument, object or medical device is tested for magnetic resonance. When the item is stainless steel with rubber tips or castors it will usually be considered MRI compatible medical equipment because it does not contain iron and will not interfere with magnetic resonance and imagining. MRI compatible medical equipment that is approved for use in MRI rooms and environments will typically be labeled with a small green square with the letters MR in green inside the square. Items that can be used in MRI environments under very specific conditions in order to not interfere with imaging will be marked with a yellow triangle containing the letters MR in black in the center of the triangle. Items that are unsafe for MRI use have a red circle with the line through the letters MR that are inside the circle.

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How versatile is a C-Arm table for a smaller clinic, hospital or healthcare facility?

Monday, January 18, 2010

A C-Arm table is perhaps one of the most versatile pieces if equipment for any size of hospital, healthcare facility or patient treatment clinic. The optional C-Arm equipment that can easily mount over or on any C-Arm table means that this particular piece of equipment can be used in a variety of types of imaging, surgical, diagnostic and treatment ways. The many different positioning options on C-Arm tables easy adjust the table's position and height, perfect for working with stationary or ceiling mounted equipment.
In general a C-Arm table will have a higher than average weight capacity, with many models rated to suit patients up to 500 pounds. his means that these tables are ideal for bariatric facilities or healthcare services with bariatric patients.
What are some of the unique functions found on different models and styles of C-Arm tables?
Depending on the model, make and manufacturer, a C-Arm table can come with a variety of different options that make operating and using the table very easy and convenient. Some models come with a digital LED display that is mounted on the side of the table. This allows for immediate and real time viewing of the specific position of the table on all axes and also allows for pre-programming several different table positions which can be selected with the simple push of a button.
Carbon-fiber C-Arm table models may also offer several additional functions or features that make these styles of table ideal for pain management and imaging work. The table is extremely durable and also offers a maximum range of positioning for ease of staff access to the patient. These tables can be raised and lowered to between 25 and 43 inches, ideal for any requirements.
The metal free imagining space is also an important feature or function to be considered when selecting a C-Arm table. Some models offer a standard metal free area for imaging while others offer extended surfaces of up to 56 or more inches. These tables all work with standard C-Arm imaging systems, making them very versatile.
What accessories can be purchased for a C-Arm table?
There are several different additional items or accessories that will work with many of the standard types of C-Arm tables. A very practical and space efficient type of accessory is a carbon fiber arm board. This device, which folds in two for easy storage, simply slides under the pad on a C-Arm table to allow the arm or the leg to be positioned for imaging. The carbon surface provides a metal free environment for imaging, without bulky arm rests that are permanently in place on the C-Arm table.
A butterfly pillow is a great option for providing additional patient comfort while they are positioned on the C-Arm table. This inflatable pillow can be adjusted for each patient, ensuring that the neck and back is kept in a comfortable and correct position for imagining or treatment.

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