The principle of a C-arm machine involves emitting X-rays from one side of the "C" arm, which pass through the patient's body and are then captured by an image intensifier (or flat panel detector) on the opposite side, producing real-time fluoroscopic images.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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X-ray Emission: The C-arm machine contains an X-ray tube that emits X-rays.
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Patient Positioning: The patient is positioned between the X-ray source and the image intensifier or flat panel detector.
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X-ray Penetration: X-rays pass through the patient's body. The amount of X-ray absorption varies depending on the density of the tissues. Dense tissues like bone absorb more X-rays, while softer tissues allow more X-rays to pass through.
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Image Intensification (or Digital Detection): The X-rays that pass through the patient strike the image intensifier (or flat panel detector).
- Image Intensifier: An image intensifier converts the X-ray image into a visible light image and amplifies its brightness.
- Flat Panel Detector: Flat panel detectors directly convert X-rays into digital signals, resulting in higher-resolution images with less distortion compared to traditional image intensifiers.
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Real-time Imaging (Fluoroscopy): The resulting image is displayed on a monitor in real-time. This allows surgeons and other medical professionals to visualize the anatomy and guide procedures dynamically. The C-arm's mobility allows imaging from different angles without repositioning the patient.
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Applications: C-arm machines are commonly used during surgical, orthopedic, and interventional radiology procedures to visualize bones, joints, blood vessels, and other anatomical structures.
In essence, the C-arm uses X-ray technology to provide a live X-ray view, enabling clinicians to perform minimally invasive procedures with precision and accuracy.
