The Benefits of Moving from Medical Film to Computed Radiography

The medical imaging field is ever changing. Over the past few years we've seen a noticeable switch from hospitals and radiography departments using bulky film to a more digital means. Nowhere else is this more evident that how computed radiography has become the main go between traditional film radiography and digital radiography.

The process of converting images to CR is sometimes described as retrofit. In nearly all retrofit projects, elements of the original environment are maintained, while the particular enhancement is merged with systems or structures already in place. Conversion to CR such as kodak point of care or Kodak CR, from a film-based fits this model perfectly.

The conversion to a digital means of diagnostic imaging is a direct-capture system like the one commonly used in Kodak POC. The digital signal created by the penetration of ionizing radiation passes directly into the system's computer. In a direct-capture environment such as the Kodak POC 260, the table top has sensors embedded throughout to accomplish the task of the digital reader card and digital reader. All data is fed directly into the computer and an image is generated from there.

The efficiency and ease of use of a workstation such as the Kodak point of care or Kodak CR are commonly cited reasons why medical offices are moving towards CR technology. However, the most predominate reason you'll hear the most is the cost of the systems. A Kodak POC is simply cheaper than direct-capture.

In this computer radiography format, the bulky film of the past is no longer used. Instead image capture is done through a digital recording plate replacing film in a standard cassette. Since film isn't used, neither are darkrooms or all of the associated chemicals. This is an important facet of evaluating the question of transitioning between a Kodak point of care from film. How much expenses are cut from the budget in film, chemicals, supplies, parts and labor not to mention staff time or training when film imaging is eliminated. The cost of Kodak POC conversion becomes less of a burden.

Another aspect of CR conversion is the change in exposure factors. In the film imaging, the patient is often over-exposed and the image turns out developed-up to the desired point. You don't have this problem with a Kodak POC 140 or Kodak POC 120. With computed radiography, patients are underexposed with the computer enhances the image up to the preferred level.

The cost of a Kodak point of care depends on the amount of different features you would like. The more you want, the more money it will be. Some of these features range from the number of workstations to a projection system for reviewing images in a larger format.


About the Author

Jonathon Blocker writes about kodak point of care. With installations at over 450 imaging centers and hospitals; Dicom Solutions is one of the leading distributors in the medical imaging industry.