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Abstract:
Mini C-arm units are very compact, mobile fluoroscopic imaging systems designed for real-time imaging of the extremities (e.g., fingers, arm, foot). As with conventional mobile C-arm units (such as those we evaluated in Health Devices 19[8], August 1990, and 22[3], March 1993), the standard environment in which mini C-arm units are used is the operating room; however, these units are compact enough to be used in emergency departments, physicians' offices, and, in some cases, locations outside of a healthcare facility (e.g., athletic playing field, work site). While mini C-arm units share many characteristics with conventional mobile C-arm units, their smaller size, simplicity of use, and lower cost can be significant advantages for certain procedures. In this study, we evaluated the FluoroScan, one of the two mini C-arm units currently available in the United States (and marketed worldwide). We tested this system against all relevant criteria from our earlier Evaluations of conventional mobile C-arm units and rated it Acceptable. Our ratings of C-arm units, in this and the previous studies, are based on the ability of a system to reliably produce the best possible image quality while (1) delivering the lowest possible radiation exposure to the patient and personnel and (2) minimizing operator effort and inconvenience. We discuss the purpose and use of mini C-arm units and describe the function of their major components in the Clinical and Technical Overview. In the Purchasing Guidance section, we highlight the differences between conventional and mini C-arm units and provide guidance for choosing the type of system that best meets a facility's needs. We also briefly describe the other currently available mini C-arm unit, the XiTec XiScan, and compare it with the evaluated unit. Issues of minimizing occupational radiation exposure resulting from scatter are discussed in the supplementary article, "Scatter Radiation from the FluoroScan Mini C-arm Unit." Readers are cautioned not to base purchasing and use decisions on our rating alone, but on a thorough understanding of our conclusions and the issues surrounding mini C-arm units, which can be gained by reading this study in its entirely. For additional perspectives on fluoroscopy and the operation of C-arm units, refer to our earlier Evaluations of conventional C-arm units.