Lovelace Medical Center, Albuquerque, N.M., purchased and installed a new Carestream DRX-Evolution Plus in its radiology department to deliver rapid image access and enhanced image quality. A DRX Plus 3543 Detector is used in the wall stand, the table, and for tabletop exams.
“We conducted an extensive evaluation process involving five suppliers that included evaluating references from users of these systems,” says Rita Matteucci, director of diagnostic services at Lovelace Medical Center. “The DRX-Evolution Plus immediately went to the top of our list based on feedback from other hospitals as well as the system’s advanced features and ease of use.”
Matteucci reports that the system equips her staff to efficiently conduct complex exams including long-length imaging studies, orthopaedic, and cross-table exams. “We do a lot of orthopaedic exams including scoliosis, spine, extremities and standing weight-bearing ankles and hips. We also do skeletal surveys. This system allows our staff to image patients more efficiently, reduce dose and improve image quality,” she says.
The system features software that automatically stitches images together to create long-length exams, which saves time and improves image quality. “The table also lowers to a height of about 21 inches which is extremely helpful in imaging ill or injured patients. In addition, we often are able to perform exams while patients remain in their wheelchairs, which eliminates movement that may be painful,” Matteucci adds.
The system’s auto-tracking feature moves the x-ray tube into position to help reduce fatigue and repetitive stress injuries for technologists.
Other process improvements include automated user login by scanning radio-frequency identification badges and the ability for technologists to view images and change techniques on a tube touchscreen.
For more information about this system, visit Carestream.
