What Are the Different Types of X-Ray Machines? (2024)

Jan 9, 2023 12:14:00 AM / byChad Hutchison

X-rays are a natural form of radiation used to capture an image of structures in the body.

In the field of diagnostic radiology, various X-ray machines are available for purchase, all ranging in size, power, and manufacture.

X-ray machines can be broken down into three main categories. Keep reading to learn more about each type.

1. Fixed X-Ray Machines

Fixed X-ray machines require large transformers that need to be built into the walls and connected to high-output electrical supplies. The X-ray tube is large and has limited movement. Due to the construction and electrical needs, Fixed X-ray machines are more costly.

Fixed X-ray machines provide many benefits. The more powerful transformer allows for cross-table studies and larger patients to be scanned while obtaining images of excellent quality.

Also, the X-ray tube's rotational movement combined with the table's range of motion means you can perform a wider variety of procedures. Fixed X-ray machines are best suited for teaching and research institutions.

2. Portable X-Ray Machines

Portable X-ray machines have many benefits. They have small and lightweight transformers, and they don’t require lead sheltering in the walls or to be connected to specific electrical outputs. This makes Portable X-ray machines relatively inexpensive.

Since portable X-ray devices are so easy to move, they’re ideal for patient-to-patient transport. The effective design makes Portable X-ray machines highly compatible with other forms of technology. The high-quality images are instantly sent to a laptop, which can be easily transferred between facilities. The maximum output of a Portable X-ray Machine varies from 70-110 kV and 15-35 mA.

Portable X-ray machines do have some disadvantages. They’re limited in the studies they can perform. Also, the lower generator power means it may be more difficult to obtain clear cross-table views.

3. Mobile X-Ray Machines

Mobile X-ray equipment has larger transformers, which are typically mounted on wheels. These larger transformers can deliver higher output, ranging between 90-125kv and 40 to 300mA. This means the Mobile X-ray can take a broader range of images.

As suggested by its name, the Mobile X-ray is also a moveable X-ray machine. Mobile X-ray equipment can easily move over flat surfaces and are best suited for bedside and emergency room use.

How To Select the Right X-Ray Machine

When looking for a new X-ray machine, the decision may seem overwhelming. There are many variables to weigh in the decision, such as the cost, financing options, the manufacturer, and if you’re selecting the right model for your needs.

  1. 1. Consider your imaging and practice needs first. It’s important to ask yourself the following questions:
  • What will my patient volume be like?
  • Will our X-ray procedures be basic?
  • Do I need to perform many different studies every day?
  • Do I need to move my X-ray machine often?

2. Once you have considered the imaging and practice needs, you should consider the cost in your final decision. You may ask yourself the following questions:

  • What is my budget?
  • What are my potential earnings from the addition of an X-ray machine?
  • Are my finances preventing me from selecting the most appropriate X-ray machine for my practice?
  • Am I open to financing options?

Buying a Portable X-Ray Machine

If your volume is lower and procedures are more basic, a Portable X-ray machine might be the right choice. Portable X-ray machines are best in light-duty settings such as physician offices, urgent care facilities, family practices, and chiropractic offices. They’re also quite cost-effective and will still earn additional revenue.

It’s important to note that every state has different local and state-level regulations for where and how portable X-ray machines can be used. If you buy a portable device, know your state’s laws to stay compliant.

Buying a Mobile X-Ray Machine

If you have low to medium volume and more advanced procedures, a Mobile X-ray machine might be the right choice for you. Mobile X-ray machines can perform almost all types of radiographic examinations. The cost of a Mobile X-ray is also relatively reasonable and will bring in additional value and revenue with the ability to perform more advanced studies.

Again, be certain to triple-check your state’s regulations about how and where mobile X-ray machines can be used to ensure compliance.

Buying a Fixed X-Ray Machine

A Fixed X-ray machine might be the right option if you have high volumes and need to perform many different studies. Fixed X-ray machines are typically purchased for use in facilities with an established high volume.

Although they’re more expensive, Fixed X-ray machines add the most value because of the broad range of studies that can be conducted and the ability to handle higher volumes. If the high cost is an obstacle, financing options are available to make purchasing this X-ray machine possible.

Unsure Which X-Ray Machine Is Best For You? Contact Us

Choosing the best X-ray machine for your practice is a big decision. If you’re still unsure which device is correct, please speak to one of our helpful representatives. You can either fill out a form on our website or call us to discuss your options.

Maven Imaging is a leading nationwide supplier, and we’re here to assist you in making the best decision for your needs. We have financing options that make finding the best X-ray machine for your situation possible. Reach out today.

Tags:Digital X-ray System,X-ray System,Portable X-ray,mobile x-ray,x-ray equipment

What Are the Different Types of X-Ray Machines? (1)

Written by Chad Hutchison

Founder and CEO of Maven Imaging, Chad Hutchison has been in the medical imaging equipment market since 2003. As his business grew, he pioneered buying and selling medical equipment online and eventually began offering leasing and financing to meet market demands and help customers. His market expertise goes beyond traditional medical imaging and finance support, as he’s spearheading cloud-based lending solutions for vendors across the sector.

What Are the Different Types of X-Ray Machines? (2024)

FAQs

What Are the Different Types of X-Ray Machines? ›

X-ray technology has evolved significantly, leading to advancements such as digital radiography, CT scanners, and fluoroscopy machines. These improvements have resulted in faster image acquisition, enhanced image quality, and reduced radiation doses, making medical imaging more effective and safer for patients.

How many types of X-ray machines are there? ›

X-ray technology has evolved significantly, leading to advancements such as digital radiography, CT scanners, and fluoroscopy machines. These improvements have resulted in faster image acquisition, enhanced image quality, and reduced radiation doses, making medical imaging more effective and safer for patients.

What are the three types of x-ray imaging systems? ›

X-ray examinations are generally classified into 3 categories: radiography, fluoroscopy, and computed tomography. Radiography employs film or a solid-state image receptor to acquire static images for interpretation by a radiologist (see Image.

What is the most powerful X-ray? ›

The most powerful pulse of X-rays ever reported has been produced at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in California. In only 440 billionths of a billionth of a second, or attoseconds, it packed nearly a terawatt of power – a thousand times more than the average yearly output of a nuclear power plant.

What is the most advanced X-ray? ›

The LCLS-II produces one million X-ray flashes per second, which is 8,000 times more than its predecessor. It's also 10,000 times brighter and that increased illumination will help science glimpse some of the most puzzling atomic attributes across quantum mechanics, clean energy technologies, and medicine.

What are the three most common X-rays? ›

Some of the most common types of X-rays include:
  • Abdominal X-ray. This X-ray helps providers evaluate parts of your digestive system and diagnose conditions like kidney stones and bladder stones.
  • Bone X-ray. ...
  • Chest X-ray. ...
  • Dental X-ray. ...
  • Head X-ray. ...
  • Spine X-ray.

What is a full body X-ray called? ›

A whole body CT (computed tomography) scan, or CAT scan, is a powerful screening test that uses X-rays to produce images of the inside of your body, including tissues, organs, and bones, especially in the chest, abdomen, and pelvis.

How long does X-ray radiation stay in the body? ›

Does any radiation stay in the body after an imaging exam? After a radiographic, fluoroscopic, CT, ultrasound, or MRI exam, no radiation remains in your body.

What type of computerized x-ray is used? ›

Computed Tomography (CT)

What is a knee X-ray called? ›

This is a basic article for medical students and other non-radiologists. A knee x-ray, also known as knee series or knee radiograph, is a set of two x-rays of the knee joint. It is performed to look for evidence of injury (or pathology) affecting the knee, often after trauma.

What is a neck X-ray called? ›

In a cervical (SER-vih-kul) spine X-ray, an X-ray machine sends a beam of radiation through the neck, and an image is recorded on special film or a computer. This image includes the seven vertebrae in the neck area, the first vertebrae of the thoracic spine, and the disk spaces between them.

How many different types of x-rays are there? ›

There are several different types of x-ray: plain radiography (plain x-ray) computed tomography, known as CT scanning. fluoroscopy — which produces moving images of an organ.

What are the two types of X-ray machines? ›

Types of X-ray Systems (And Their Uses)
  • Computed Radiography (CR) There are three main technologies that provide X-ray images on a monitor. ...
  • Direct Radiography (DR) Similarly to CR, DR does not use film. ...
  • Dental X-Ray Machines. ...
  • Intraoral X-rays. ...
  • Extraoral X-rays. ...
  • Veterinary X-ray Machines. ...
  • Mammography. ...
  • Fluoroscopy.
Nov 18, 2023

What type of x-rays do dentists use? ›

There are different types of dental x-rays that can be taken with the receptor (film, sensor or plate) inside the mouth, called intraoral x-rays, or outside the mouth, called extraoral x-rays.

X-Rays: Uses, Procedure, ResultsVerywell Healthhttps://www.verywellhealth.com ›

An X-ray, also known as radiography , is a medical imaging technique. It uses tiny amounts of electromagnetic radiation to create images of structures inside th...
X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs on film or digital media. Standard X-rays are perform...
However, x-rays are quick, painless procedures that help your doctor identify the cause of your symptoms, so you can get the treatment you need. Doctors use dif...

What are three types of X-ray detectors? ›

In XRF spectrometers three different types of X-ray detectors are used: gas-filled detectors, scintillation detectors and semiconductor detectors.

How many types of X-ray production are there? ›

X-rays are generated via interactions of the accelerated electrons with electrons of tungsten nuclei within the tube anode. There are two types of X-ray generated: characteristic radiation and bremsstrahlung radiation.

What are the three other types of radiology other than X-rays? ›

Computed tomography (CT), also known as computerized axial tomography (CAT). Fluoroscopy. Fusion imaging (a technique that fuses two different imaging tests). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA).

What is the difference between DR and CR X-ray machines? ›

DR uses flat panel detectors based on direct or indirect conversion of X-rays to charge, which is then processed to produce a digital image. CR uses cassette-based phosphor storage plates (PSP), which are then scanned by the computerized system into a digital format for image processing, archiving, and presentation.

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