The trick is to avoid becoming overwhelmed and to evaluate each digital modality in a systematic approach.
In my many years of dealing with a wide array of Veterinarians imaging needs (34 years) I have learned the starting point for any imaging purchase discussion is which type of technology is appropriate for your practices. In this case we are talking about Digital imaging systems. The three types of detector technology are computed radiography [CR], direct digital radiography [DR], which includes Flat panel and [CCD] type cameras systems.
Determining which system is right for your practice.
The digital imaging modality you choose will be based on how these 10 factors will affect your practice and how much weight or value you place on each one.
1). Practice type
2). Cost vs. value
3). Image quality
4). Service contract costs
5). Longevity of the system
6). Is an X-ray machine also needed to be purchased?
7). Service record of equipment provider
8). Digital imaging expertise of equipment provider in veterinary medicine
9). Software integration, Dicom, Pacs capable, support costs with internet support
10). Warranties
Is a CR system the right choice for your practice?
CR uses imaging plates to generate a digital image. These imaging plates are placed in a CR reader, which generates a digital image. The workflow has a similar feel to film-based systems
Despite claims made by some DR vendors,
veterinarians choosing CR will see a degree of time savings and
increased efficiency in radiology over film based systems.
The image quality from CR systems is
equal to or superior to many DR systems. It my opinion pocket pets and
exotics, CR systems may perform better than many DR systems. CR is a
mature, secure technology, There are more CR systems installed and in
use than any other digital technology.
Similar CR systems are used in the human
medicine with only a change in software. One side benefit of purchasing
this technology from DIS is our guaranteed support of the software and
hardware for at least seven years even if the manufacturer stops
supporting the product as long as we have the parts available.
CR provides many benefits at a lower cost
than any of the DR systems. The quality CR systems DIS provides can be
installed for around $30,000. This mature, secure technology with high
grade image quality is the easy choice for any veterinary practice,
particularly if you want to use your existing x-ray machine.
CR systems are sold by many different
types of suppliers, national veterinary distributors, catalog houses and
local x-ray dealers. My experience and the experience of many of our
Veterinarian friends are, when purchasing a CR system the support
provided by the equipment provider and the knowledge they have obtained
from many years of Veterinary imaging expertise (DIS 30 years) is just
as important as the CR system that is purchased. A couple of questions
to ask your equipment provider: is a hot swap warranty provided at no
additional charge; do you provide toll-free unlimited software support?
