As the core imaging equipment for orthopedic surgery and interventional therapy, the image quality of C-arm machine directly affects the accuracy of clinical diagnosis. If a hospital encounters unclear images when using a C-arm machine, it is mostly due to the following reasons (with solutions).
I. Hardware Issues
1. X-ray Tube or High-Voltage System Malfunction
Aging of the X-ray tube, focal spot misalignment, poor heat dissipation, or faults in the high-voltage generator can reduce X-ray quality, leading to image blurring or excessive noise.
2. Detector or CCD Camera Problems
Wear and tear of the flat-panel detector, poor electrical contact in the CCD camera, or synchronization issues in the image conversion circuit can result in image ghosting, tearing, or noise.
3. Image Intensifier Malfunction
Issues such as poor electrical connections in the high-voltage circuit or a drop in vacuum quality can cause low contrast and poor image layering.
Solution:
For hardware-related problems, hospitals typically cannot resolve the issue internally. It is recommended to contact the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for after-sales support. Damaged components may need to be replaced.
II. Software and System Errors
1. Image Processing System Failure
Image distortion, noise, or failure to display images can be caused by errors in software algorithms or lost calibration data.
Solution:
Recalibrate system parameters and update the software to the latest version.
2. Automatic Exposure Control (AEC) Malfunction
Under AEC mode, the presence of metal implants or a patient’s body being off-center may result in underexposure or overexposure.
Solution:
Manually adjust exposure settings and ensure the region of interest is centered in the field of view. Avoid metal interference and reposition the patient if needed.
III. Operational and Environmental Factors
1. Improper Patient Positioning or Radiation Field Setup
Blurring can occur if the patient moves, is improperly positioned, or if the radiation field is too large.
Solution:
Use stabilization aids to secure the patient’s position. Adjust the collimator to narrow the radiation field and reduce scatter.
2. Incorrect Use of Grid Filters
An unmatched or missing grid filter allows scatter radiation to degrade image contrast.
Solution:
Select an appropriate grid based on the patient’s body size. For example, the Perlove PLX119 Series dynamic flat-panel C-arm includes a removable grid design that allows for low-dose imaging in thinner body parts or sensitive populations such as pediatric or gynecological patients.
3. Improper Source-to-Image Distance (SID)
A SID that is too short can cause geometric magnification and edge blurring; too long can reduce image resolution.
Solution:
Adjust the position of the flat-panel detector dynamically according to surgical requirements. Consider using equipment that supports dynamic SID adjustment, such as the Perlove PLX C7600 Series.
