Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
by Dr Jonathan Spanoghe, Riverton Rossmoyne Veterinary Hospital, WA
When updating our X-ray unit, we wanted a machine that was reliable and robust but also took high-quality X-rays. We also wanted a floating table to make it easier to X-ray larger dogs. While the beam only moves left or right, the table can move in four different directions.
What’s good about it
The floating table allows for accurate positioning with minimal effort. Being able to fine-tune X-rays of heavy dogs without the need of physically moving the animal is a huge advantage.
The floating table is designed for larger animals but can also be used with smaller patients such as cats and birds. The unit has a built-in grid that reduces scatter radiation that can affect film quality.
There’s no need to enter kV and mAs settings. By entering the name of the body part and the thickness, the unit sets the exposure. The settings can also be entered manually if you need to change them for specific cases.
The supplier, ATX Vet, has a Perth office, which made it easy to organise technicians to visit and set up the unit. We’re located in an older building but the techs did a great job installing it neatly with all the cables out of the way.
Prior to purchase, we looked at a few options but chose this one because it’s a very robust unit. That’s essential in vet hospitals where things get hit, bashed and kicked regularly. The hydraulics are great and the table movement is very smooth. We’ve had this system for six years and haven’t had a single issue with it.
What’s not so good
It would be nice if the floating function allowed the table to move a greater distance in all directions. If the head could also move further left and right, it would allow for X-rays to be taken on the edge of the table.
