by Medical imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosis and treatment of various diseases. Technological advancements in this field have revolutionized healthcare over the past few decades. The recent development of phosphor screen scanners is poised to take medical imaging to new heights. These scanners offer improved image quality, reduced radiation exposure, and faster image capture compared to traditional computed radiography systems.
What is a phosphor screen scanner?
A phosphor screen scanner is a medical imaging device that uses phosphor screens and laser scanning technology for digital radiography. Conventional radiography uses X-rays to create a latent image on a phosphor coated plate or screen. This screen is then scanned by lasers in the scanner to read the stored light signal pixel by pixel. The light signal values are then converted into a digital image by the scanner’s software.
Key Components
A phosphor screen scanner consists of the following key components:
– Phosphor Screen: These storage screens coated with phosphor materials like cesium bromide capture the X-ray energy and store it as light photons. Different phosphors are used for general radiography, mammography, etc.
– Laser Scanner: High-power laser diodes scan the phosphor screen pixel by pixel to read the stored light signal. Galvanometer mirrors guide the laser beam in x and y directions for a fast and accurate scan.
– Photodiode Detector: The photodetector measures the amount of light released from the phosphor at each pixel location during laser scanning.
– Image Processing Unit: Powerful onboard computers process the light signals captured by the photodetector into a high-quality digital radiographic image. Corrections are applied for laser power variations, scratches, and other issues.
Advantages over Computed Radiography
Phosphor screen scanners offer multiple advantages compared to traditional computed radiography systems:
Faster Image Capture: Laser scanning is much faster than the drum scanning method used in computed radiography. Images can be captured in 1-2 seconds versus 10-30 seconds. This minimizes patient wait time.
Higher Resolution: Scanning each pixel individually allows capturing images at higher resolutions up to 4096 x 4096 pixels. Details are more clearly visible.
Reduced Radiation Dose: The high resolution enables using lower radiation doses. On average, radiation can be reduced by 30-50% compared to conventional radiography without compromising image quality. This is safer for patients.
Real-Time Preview: Images are viewable within seconds of exposure, allowing real-time previewing to check positioning before the patient leaves. Retakes are minimized.
Better Image Quality: Laser scanning and advanced image processing deliver sharper images with lower noise levels. Artifacts from scratches or dust are removed digitally. Diagnostic accuracy is improved.
Wider Dynamic Range: Phosphor Screen Scanner can handle a wider range of X-ray absorption, capturing details in both very light and very dense areas well. This facilitates general, trauma, and complex orthopedic exams.
Applications in Various Modalities
Phosphor screen scanners are compatible with general radiography, mammography, fluoroscopy, dental imaging, and more. Modality-specific phosphor screens are available. Due to the above advantages, these scanners are increasingly being adopted in settings like:
– Emergency Rooms: Faster scanning speeds are ideal for timely imaging of trauma patients. Low radiation helps follow up exams.
– OR and Cath Labs: Real-time imaging guidance is possible due to quick preview. Less scatter from cassettes improves image quality.
– Mammography: High resolution optimized for breast imaging provides clear visualization of microcalcifications. Lower radiation is beneficial.
– Orthopedic Clinics: Wider dynamic range aids exams involving bones as well as soft tissues like muscles or ligaments surrounding implants.
– General and Specialty Radiology: Image quality on par with CR/DR systems removes the need for duplicate exams where referral is necessary. Workflow is more streamlined.
Cost Analysis
Phosphor screen scanners do command a higher upfront cost than conventional CR systems currently. However, the total cost of ownership is lower due to the benefits outlined earlier:
– Lower repeat rate means fewer wasted scans and reduced patient burden/anxiety.
– Less retakes means less grid time and less workload/fatigue on technologists.
– Streamlined workflow and faster throughput allow higher daily patient volumes and revenue.
– Reduced long-term costs of film/plates, chemical processing, and storage of analog images.
– Lower lifetime radiation exposure for patients and staff reduces long-term health risks and related costs
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
