The fluoroscopy and C-arm market in theU.S is growing at a rapid pace. This popularity is likely to continueas several different imaging modalities become more widespread.Currently there are C-arms and fluoroscopes that can be used for avariety of different procedures. These imaging systems have manybenefits over older models, which makes them more attractive to thegeneral public. However, before discussing the various C-arm modelsthat are available on the market, it is important to gain anunderstanding of the basic function of the fluoroscopic C-arm models.
Fluoroscopyis a form of diagnostic surgery that enables radiologists to see intothe body during a minimally invasive procedure. C-arm fluoroscopy isavailable for both adults and children through different companies.Fluoroscopy is primarily used for newborn babies and children toidentify abnormalities, such as cleft palate skin, within the mouth.
Thefluoroscopyand C-arm market is expected to continue to expand as otherhealthcare professionals embrace fluoroscopic c-arms. The C-armindustry is currently seeing growth in India, where many facilitiesuse fluoroscopy imaging in conjunction with traditional c-armoperations. In India, many hospitals incorporate fluoroscopy imagingas part of their standard procedures.
Ultrasoundguided C-arm systems are ideal for teaching and research settings asthey do not require visualization for patients. These systems allowpatients to view a moving image on a computer monitor and keyinformation can then be viewed and accessed using voice commands.This is the ideal system for use in teaching facilities as it allowsfor the teaching resource to interact directly with the patient andteaches them procedures rather than providing textual descriptions.
Fluoroscopyand C-arm equipment are also being developed for use in theworkplace, in educational institutions, hospice care units, pilotstraining facilities, museums and laboratories and medical researchfacilities. Currently there are two major types of flexible C-armtechnology available in the UK. The first is the flexible camera anddisplay combination systems and the second is remotely operatedfluoroscopy C-arms. Both systems have been designed to save space andtransportable meaning they are ideal for use in a range of workenvironments where there is limited floor space and where access to afluoroscopy unit may be limited or the patient may be uncomfortabledue to visualization.
