Veterinary Digital X-Ray System Features to Look For (That Have Nothing to Do with the X-Rays…)

When choosing a digital x-ray machine for veterinary use, everyone can probably agree that diagnostic, good-quality images are of the utmost importance. That’s the whole point of using radiographs in the first place—to get accurate information about what’s going on with a patient.

However, assuming a machine produces great x-ray images on the sizes of patients you see, there are other factors that can affect practice flow, efficiency, and return on investment.

If you are choosing between two or more otherwise excellent machines, here are some additional factors to consider…

Generator and Table Size

Newer technology, including high-frequency generators, allow some x-ray units to be made smaller and more compact than previous models. 

Many practices have limited space. So, if the table and system are still big enough to accommodate your largest patients, it might be advantageous to purchase an x-ray system with a smaller footprint.

Setup and Installation

Outside of minimum radiation safety standards for the x-ray suite or location, there are options when it comes to installing a new machine.

One consideration is the electric supply. Some newer systems provide the convenience of simply plugging into a standard outlet. Others might have specific electrical requirements, requiring consultation with an electrician or even rewiring the x-ray suite. 

There’s also the matter of setting up the machine and ensuring it’s operating smoothly. Check if your purchase includes installation costs. Inquire about any shipping or transportation timelines and concerns.

User Friendliness

A user-friendly machine can improve efficiency. This means smoother practice flow, fewer frustrations, and headaches, and potentially a higher number of x-ray studies performed per day or per week (and thus a better return on investment).

User-friendliness can mean many different things. But basically, this is anything that makes a radiographic study run more easily and intuitively.

Often, it includes an easy way to input patient and client information. It could also mean intuitive interfaces for setting up a study based on species, views to be performed, and the patient’s measurements.

Presets are popular and can make setting up and performing a study even easier. For example, some systems will automatically adjust settings for the study at hand (for example, cat thorax or large dog abdomen).

Software Compatibility and Reliability

Digital veterinary software is important, since it’s how x-ray images are viewed, stored, and shared. It’s crucial for day-to-day operation (i.e., interpreting radiographs right after they are taken) and can be considered part of the patient’s medical record. Software problems create huge headaches and inconveniences.

The basic requirements are that software operates smoothly, efficiently, and securely. Any software can have glitches from time to time. But there should be confidence that the company prioritizes fixing any issues. Technical support should be available. Protection against hackers or other privacy invasions should be of the utmost importance, too.

Additionally, any software purchased along with your new x-ray system should be compatible with your practice management software. This will improve efficiency and eliminate many frustrations. Also consider how images can be formatted, i.e., DICOM, jpeg, etc.

Support 

Veterinary x-ray equipment represents a significant financial investment. Protection of this investment can take many forms, such as warranties, service plans, and 24/7 technical support.

Ask about these things prior to purchase. In addition to service and repairs being available, remember to ask about the timeline for repairs and whether loaner equipment is available in the meantime to keep you up and running.

Finally, consider whether or not replacement parts are available—and likely to continue being available for the foreseeable future. An x-ray system investment is typically a long-term one, so it’s very frustrating (and expensive) to have no options for repair if a component breaks down.

Extra Bells and Whistles

Here are a few examples of “extras” a veterinary practice might look for on their new x-ray system…

• Tools like measurements (possibly including preset, guided measurements like a vertebral heart score tool) within the software.

• Horizontal beam capabilities, especially for practices that see a lot of exotic species.

• Combination machines, such as one that also includes a modality like a fluoroscopy.

• Everything you need for the new veterinary x-ray system is included in the purchase, such as one or more sensors, hardware, software, a workstation laptop, etc.

• Access to training for the veterinary team, to help with learning the new system and improving efficiency.

Always start by making sure a veterinary DR system meets its primary purpose: taking good, diagnostic-quality images. 

After that, the purchase isn’t always an “apples-to-apples” comparison. Shop around and see if there’s a good system available with features that benefit your practice and make the x-ray process smoother and more efficient.

Written by: Dr. Tammy Powell, DVM