Are you focusing on the wrong details for your new C-Arm purchase? Many facilities get stuck on one or two popular specifications. At JayXray, we see buyers overlook critical questions that impact daily use and long-term value. Understanding what really matters is the key to a smart investment in your imaging technology.
Is the Detector Right for Your Procedures?
Many buyers get fixated on the X-Ray tube, such as the anode type and power. But the detector technology has become arguably more important in recent years for image quality and dose. Older or lower-cost systems may still use an image intensifier (II). Modern systems use digital flat-panel detectors (FPD), which provide superior image quality, a larger dynamic range, and often reduce the patient’s X-Ray dose.
Beyond the type, detector size is a critical C-Arm specification. A 9-inch equivalent (typically 20~22cm square) detector is a common standard, perfect for most pain management and extremity procedures. However, if you plan to do vascular work, abdominal procedures, or need to see a larger anatomical area, a 12-inch equivalent (typically 29~33cm square) detector is necessary. Choosing the wrong size from the start will permanently limit your facility’s procedural capabilities.
Does the Software Match Your Specialty?
A new C-Arm is more than just hardware; it’s a sophisticated software platform. The software package you choose dictates the system’s capabilities. A basic system for an orthopedic clinic needs simple fluoroscopy and perhaps some measurement tools. A C-Arm intended for a vascular suite, however, requires advanced C-Arm features. These might include digital subtraction angiography (DSA), road-mapping, and pixel-shifting.
They often sell these software packages at high prices and treat them as separate line items. People often assume these features come with their package when they buy a C-Arm. You must confirm that the system’s software aligns with your specific clinical and billing needs. Adding a software package later can be difficult or impossible.
What is the True Cost of Ownership?
The sticker price is just the beginning of your investment. An “insider” question always focuses on the total cost of ownership. The service plan and parts availability are critical. A cheaper machine with an expensive or unreliable service contract is no bargain. At JayXray, we always advise clients to map out the five-year cost, not just the initial purchase price.
Before buying, ask direct questions about service:
- What is the full warranty length, and what does it cover?
- What is the annual cost of a service contract after the warranty expires?
- Are technicians based locally for a fast response time?
- What is the typical cost and lead time for a replacement X-Ray tube or detector?
Finding the Right New C-Arm
Learn how a new C-Arm can benefit your practice, today!
The best new C-Arm is the one that fits your specific procedural, software, and service needs. Looking beyond the price tag and asking targeted questions is essential for a successful purchase. The experts at JayXray are here to share insider knowledge and help you identify the perfect system. Contact us today for a consultation on your next imaging investment.
