Introduction
C-Arm is a medical imaging equipment that allows healthcare professionals and physicians to monitor a variety of operations like cardiology, orthopedics, surgery, traumatology, and emergency care that requires intraoperative imaging. The equipment got its name from its C-shaped arm that connects the X-ray detector with the X-ray source.
The C-Arm comprises three parts – X-ray generators, imaging system, and workstation unit, that help in viewing, storing, and transferring high resolution X-ray images. The real time X-ray imaging equipment is portable from one place to another for convenient treatment, hence the need for maintenance comes with it for a lasting life.
Key Maintenance Tips of C-Arm Machines:
Preventive Maintenance:
Preventive Maintenance is the best and most advisable way to keep a C-Arm in better working condition for a long time. It is necessary to check the C-Arm from time to time by the guidelines given in the service manual to identify minor issues or damages. The issues must be resolved only by a qualified service engineer and not by self as it might result in an unexpected catastrophe. The service engineer can check the cables, brakes, wheels, clocks, and batteries of the machine for better quality imaging.
Regular Sterilization:
Generally, a C-Arm is used on many patients regularly, therefore the chances of dust, dirt, and debris getting accumulated are high, resulting in electrical issues. The C-Arm has to be cleaned regularly in accordance with the directions specified in the service manual. The wheels of the monitor cart and the C-Arm have to be checked frequently for sutures and debris as they have the ability to damage the braking system and interrupt drivability.
Protect using Drapes:
C-Arm machines often get exposed to bodily fluids like blood and the like which is a major drawback for both the patient and the X-ray machine, when left uncleaned or undraped properly. Hence, to prevent major disasters it is very important to use C-Arm drapes while carrying out medical imaging procedures.
Safeguard the C-Arm monitor:
The C-Arm monitor can be put to sleep mode from 5 to 99 minutes in the case of inactivity for a considerable period of time. Sleep mode for a short period of time saves the images from getting burned besides preventing the damage to the monitors, which can develop into an unrepairable one with longer sleep hours.
Look out for Warranty and Best Service:
The warranty plan can cover for the damage or issues that might appear over time in the C-Arm. Sometimes, the warranties can be extended to reap better benefits.
Conclusion:
Timely maintenance of the C-Arm and its other components by adhering to the guidelines of the service manual and sometimes, that of the qualified service engineer, prevents unfortunate hazards, besides increasing the lifespan of the X-ray machine.
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