The C-arm x-ray machines used in hospitals can be classified into integrated and split types based on their mechanical structure. The main differences between an integrated C-arm and a split C-arm are reflected in the following aspects
1, structural design
Split C-arm machine: consists of the host and the workstation trolley, the two are connected through the signal cable to transmit signals.
Integral C-arm machine: the host of the traditional C-arm and the workstation trolley are combined into one, using an integrated rack design. Such as PUAI medical PLX119C mobile large flatbed all-in-one C-arm, detached from the workstation and cable bondage, the equipment covers an area of about 1 square meters, greatly saving the operating space.
integrated C-arm
2. Usage Scenarios
Split C-arm: Suitable for scenarios requiring operation from a separate control room, such as teaching and research. The C-arm can be placed inside the operating room, while the trolley monitor is positioned outside. This setup allows doctors to observe images from outside the operating room while performing exposures inside, reducing their radiation exposure time.
Integrated C-arm: More suitable for environments with limited surgical space. With a footprint of only about one square meter, it can adapt to crowded and complex surgical settings.
3. Operational Convenience
Split C-arm: Equipped with a medical display and exposure foot pedal at the workstation, along with a handheld controller. This allows doctors to operate the device both inside and outside the operating room, avoiding frequent entry and exit to adjust the equipment.
Integrated C-arm: Offers greater mobility and flexibility, allowing a single person to easily transport the machine between different rooms. With its power-off standby function, one device can serve multiple operating rooms. However, since the workstation and C-arm are integrated, positioning and exposure operations may be more crowded, and surgeons may need to frequently turn their heads to observe images.
4. Image Control Performance
Split C-arm: The workstation is not restricted by the space of the C-arm main unit, allowing for a higher-performance workstation. This results in faster image processing efficiency, as well as more convenient image storage, burning, and printing.
Integrated C-arm: Since the image display and processing system are integrated into the C-arm main unit, the workstation typically adopts an ultra-thin design, which may lead to reduced performance and limited image storage capacity.
5. Equipment Cost and Maintenance
Split C-arm: Due to its relatively independent components, faulty parts can be replaced individually, potentially reducing maintenance costs. However, it includes easily damaged parts such as signal cables, and the maintenance management of multiple components can be more complex.
Integrated C-arm: With a high level of integration and a more complex internal structure, repairs can be more challenging, often requiring the replacement of entire components, leading to higher maintenance costs. However, it eliminates the issue of maintaining cables between the workstation and the main unit.
6. Impact on the Surgical Environment
Split C-arm: Provides a more open surgical viewing space, avoiding screen obstruction and ensuring sufficient room for auxiliary surgical equipment. For example, Perlove Medical’s PLX118F Split C-arm X-ray System comes with three 19-inch LCD monitors, supporting dual-monitor designs for both inside and outside the operating room. This allows surgeons to conveniently observe images from both locations.
split C-arm
Integrated C-arm: The monitor screen on the main unit may impact the sterile surgical environment and make the surrounding surgical space more confined.
