Comparing X-Ray Panels: Naomi and CareRay

Digital radiography equipment continues to evolve, with several types of x-ray detectors or sensors available to veterinarians.

So, which is right for your practice? Do you need the latest technology to provide the best care, or is it best to get the most mileage you can out of previous generations of technology?

The Evolution of Digital X-Ray Detectors

Just like our cell phones and tablets, maybe it feels like there’s always a new type of x-ray technology available, whether you’re looking for small or large animal x-ray equipment, or for general, mobile, or dental radiography.

When trying to research the technology and all the lingo, maybe the choice feels a bit overwhelming.

To start with the basics, here’s a quick overview of the most common digital radiography plates on the market right now…

• CR (computed radiography). CR cassettes are also known as phosphor plates. In terms of practical application, the biggest difference between CR and DR is probably the fact that CR requires an extra step—rather than the image being transferred directly from the plates to a computer, the sensors must be read by the CR plate reader.

• DR (direct [capture] radiography). DR technology allows images to be read directly from the plate and then show up on a computer screen, which is usually a rapid process. Within DR, there are two main types of plate technologies: 

  • CCD panels. Charge-coupled device (CCD) detectors are generally built into or attached directly to the x-ray table. This technology has been compared to a digital camera in the way it detects and records light. 

  • Flat-panel detectors. Here, the x-rays are converted into an electrical signal (either directly, or indirectly by first converting x-rays into light and then into an electrical signal). The panel is separate from the x-ray table and can be removed in case a horizontal beam is needed. 

The advantages of flat panels include lower x-ray doses and better detail and clarity in the images (although opinions on image quality vary amongst practitioners). On the other hand, flat panels tend to cost more than CCD panels.

Note: The abbreviation DR is also used for “digital radiography” in general, in addition to direct capture panels.

Additional X-Ray Equipment Considerations

In addition to the detector that picks up the x-ray beam, successful radiographs also require…

• An x-ray generator, which produces the x-ray beam. This may be purchased as part of a new digital x-ray system. Or, older generators and tables may be retrofitted to be compatible with a new digital sensor.

• Software. This is what shows the x-ray image that was picked up by the sensor so that a veterinarian can see and read the image. It’s also where images are stored as part of the medical record, or shared electronically with clients, other veterinary clinics, or specialists as needed.

• Wired or wireless technology. So far as the sensor or plate goes, some have wire connections while others are wireless.

In addition to considering which sensor technology is a good fit for your practice, it’s important to think about whether or not any other equipment needs to be upgraded, and how compatible the whole system will be together.

When Is It Time to Upgrade?

This depends a bit on a veterinary practice’s needs. Typically, it’s not necessary to replace equipment for the latest model every time new technology is available, and it may be possible to keep older equipment in good working order for many years.

Using the Naomi CCD panels and CareRay Cesium (DR) panels as an example, here are some considerations…

• If a clinic is using older Naomi CCD panels that are still producing great, diagnostic images, then it’s typically not necessary to upgrade to a flat panel detector.

The veterinarian is not missing out by hanging onto older technology that still gets the job done.

• What if the plates work fine but there’s a software problem—say, the software is no longer supported? Or, what if there’s no longer any technical support or a warranty available for the plates, which sometimes happens with older technology? 

Here, the decision to upgrade may come down to personal preference, budget, risk tolerance, and how much time and effort it takes to get readable images from the software. 

• Of course, if the panels are no longer producing diagnostic images, then it’s probably time to upgrade. 

You can always check on your warranty if it’s still in place or ask about the cost of repairs, but sometimes veterinarians find that repairs are costly on older technology and their investment may be better spent on an upgrade. But this strategy will vary depending on each individual business and situation.

No matter which equipment you are currently using (or considering purchasing), remember to also think about things such as availability and cost of technical support, whether a loaner plate is available during repairs, and how the software integrates with your practice software.

Also, see if you can sell your used equipment (or make a trade-in, if your vendor allows) to offset the costs of new equipment.

All of these factors will aid in the decision of whether or not it’s time for an upgrade. 

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM