Wireless digital radiography detectors in the emergency area: an efficacious solution

• Published in: Radiologia Vol. 55; no. 3; p. 239
• Main Authors: Garrido Blázquez, M, Agulla Otero, M, Rodríguez Recio, F J, Torres Cabrera, R, Hernando González, I
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: Spanish
• Published: Spain 01-05-2013
• Subjects: Emergency Service, Hospital; Humans; Radiographic Image Enhancement - instrumentation; Radiography - instrumentation; Wireless Technology
• ISSN: 1578-178X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rx.2011.08.001

To evaluate the implementation of a flat panel digital radiolography (DR) system with WiFi technology in an emergency radiology area in which a computed radiography (CR) system was previously used. We analyzed aspects related to image quality, radiation dose, workflow, and ergonomics.
We analyzed the results obtained with the CR and WiFi DR systems related with the quality of images analyzed in images obtained using a phantom and after radiologists' evaluation of radiological images obtained in real patients. We also analyzed the time required for image acquisition and the workflow with the two technological systems. Finally, we analyzed the data related to the dose of radiation in patients before and after the implementation of the new equipment.
Image quality improved in both the tests carried out with a phantom and in radiological images obtained in patients, which increased from 3 to 4.5 on a 5-point scale. The average time required for image acquisition decreased by 25 seconds per image. The flat panel required less radiation to be delivered in practically all the techniques carried out using automatic dosimetry, although statistically significant differences were found in only some of the techniques (chest, thoracic spine, and lumbar spine).
Implementing the WiFi DR system has brought benefits. Image quality has improved and the dose of radiation to patients has decreased. The new system also has advantages in terms of functionality, ergonomics, and performance.