Mobile digital radiography (DR) systems are at the forefront in providing an initial screening for pneumonia, a developed stage of COVID-19 in severe cases. Imaging is generally not recommended in asymptomatic individuals with slight COVID-19 symptoms unless the risk of disease progression prevails. Mobile DR systems find endless applications in COVID-19 therapy and management. Mobile DR imaging systems can be deployed in makeshift or temporary hospitals, emergency rooms, A&E facilities, and in ICU. Mobile DR imaging systems offer benefits of portability, low maintenance, prompt output, and low operating costs compared to other radio diagnostic alternatives.
Benefits of mobile DR systems for COVID-19 patient diagnosis
Mobile DR systems are endorsed by several leading health regulatory bodies for use in ambulatory care facilities due to the ease with which these systems can be sanitized.
The portability factor associated with mobile DR systems has been the greatest advantage associated with it. Mobile X-Ray system like the Ultisys 3.5 is a comprehensive and versatile mobile radiography system that is easy-to-use and has well‑proven features for streamlined operation due to which it has been receiving overwhelming acceptance throughout the healthcare ecosystem.
When compared, mobile general radiography systems are an economical alternative to a fixed radiography room and allows health practitioners to bring the equipment to the patient, rather than having to bring the patient to the equipment thus proving extremely vital for serious cases of COVID-19.
Also, mobile X-ray equipment designated for COVID-19 imaging allows the flexibility to be set up closer to intensive care units, decreasing the risk of virus transmission.
The advantages of Mobile DR units in COVID-19 management
Mobile X-ray units and other DR systems are proven advantageous in curbing the spread of the infection as well as in the management of COVID-19 disease in the following ways:
- Mobile DR systems are comparatively economical and are therefore the perfect choice for developing and underdeveloped countries, makeshift COVID care centers, and hospitals.
- Mobile DR systems are portable and can be easily sterilized & cleaned thus reducing the risk of microbial contamination.
- Mobile X-Ray units can be transported to the patient’s room who cannot move or is bedridden
- Mobile X-Rays or other DR systems can be, when needed, transported to service centers for repairs, servicing etc.
The future of Mobile DR technology
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in the demand for mobile DR systems. With the healthcare fraternity becoming aware of the benefits associated with mobile DR systems, and the possibility of a similar pandemic in the future, healthcare establishments may consider switching to mobile diagnostic equipment and DR systems with anti-microbial coatings and ease of sterilization, software and hardware features which enable increased patient and radiographer protection, quicker image processing, workflow optimization, and artificial intelligence assisted clinical decision-making software. These factors confirm a bright future of mobile DR technology particularly mobile X-Rays.