[Flat panel technology in the orthopaedic trauma operating room]

The advantages of flat panel detector technology with X-ray sensitive semiconductor technology has increasingly gained acceptance in the inpatient setting for diagnostic X-ray imaging in recent years and has replaced conventional X-ray films. For intraoperative imaging C-arms, not least for cost reasons, are still based on conventional image intensifier technology. By improving the robustness of the flat panel technology and cost-effective production, future spread of these technologies in the OR could be expected. Direct digital imaging with improved image quality, with a possible reduction in radiation dose while at the same time enlarging the image field, can affect the procedural quality of surgery. A return on investment can be achieved in part by saving time and avoiding additional postoperative imaging.