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1. Pre-operation Preparation
a. Environment Check
- Ensure the operating room is clean, dry, and free of excessive dust or clutter. Foreign objects like dust can affect the C-arm’s heat dissipation and electrical performance and may introduce artifacts in the image.
- Verify that the power supply is stable. Most C-arm systems require a reliable three-phase AC power source within a specified voltage range.
- Make sure there is enough space for the C-arm to move freely around the operating table or exam bed, with no obstacles that could block its rotation or movement.
b. Equipment Check
- Appearance: Inspect the exterior of the C-arm, including the monitor, control panel, and mechanical arm, for any visible damage such as cracks or dents. Damage may affect the equipment’s performance or safety.
- Connections: Ensure that power cords and signal cables are securely connected. Loose connections can lead to image transmission issues or interference.
- Power On and Warm-up: Turn on the machine and allow it to warm up. Warm-up times vary by model but typically take a few minutes. This ensures key components like the X-ray tube reach optimal operating conditions.
c. Patient Preparation
- Explain the procedure to the patient to gain cooperation and reduce anxiety. This helps prevent sudden movement that could affect imaging quality.
- Assist the patient in positioning based on the surgical or diagnostic target area. For example, during lower limb orthopedic surgery, the leg should be positioned at the proper angle for optimal imaging.
- Remove all metal objects (e.g., jewelry, coins) from the patient’s body. Metal can cause strong artifacts in X-ray images, obscuring the anatomy of interest.
2. Operation Procedure
a. Device Positioning
- Gently move the C-arm close to the area of interest. Take care not to bump into the detector or X-ray tube.
- Adjust the height, angle, and rotation of the C-arm as needed. For example, in spine surgery, lateral or oblique views may be needed to clearly visualize the vertebrae and disc spaces.
b. Parameter Settings
- Choose the appropriate X-ray dose and exposure time. Smaller or superficial areas may require lower doses and shorter exposure, while deeper or larger areas may need higher settings. Always aim to minimize radiation exposure.
- Adjust image enhancement and resolution based on diagnostic needs. For fine details like small fractures, use higher resolution. For broader anatomical views, a lower resolution may provide a wider field of vision.
c. Image Acquisition
- Ensure that all personnel wear protective gear (e.g., lead aprons) and stay out of the direct X-ray path.
- Press the exposure button to acquire images. Some C-arm systems offer continuous or pulsed exposure modes; choose based on the situation. For dynamic procedures such as fracture reduction, continuous mode may be more suitable.
- Review the image for clarity and diagnostic value. If the image is unclear or lacks critical detail, adjust the position or settings and take another image.
When using Perlove Medical’s C-arm systems, the high-quality integrated X-ray tube and high-frequency pulsed generator allow clear, high-contrast imaging even under low dose conditions—making it easier to image larger patients or dense tissue structures.
3. Post-operation Handling
a. Equipment Cleaning and Storage
- Turn off the C-arm after use.
- Clean the exterior with a soft, clean cloth to remove dust or stains.
- Return the equipment to its designated storage location and lock any movable parts to prevent accidental movement or damage.
b. Image Storage and Documentation
- Save the acquired images in the hospital’s imaging system, clearly labeling them with patient ID, examination date, and anatomical region.
- Record key information such as X-ray dose, exposure time, and any notable findings during the procedure. These records are important for future medical evaluations and quality control.
