New Technology Provides Flexibility and Ease-of-Use to Mobile Radiography

A new mobile X-ray system combines design with new functionality to provide a straight-to-patient radiography system that can be used throughout the hospital environment.

The new system is designed to optimize workflow by transporting a mobile X-ray system around a hospital or clinic, to address the issue of access to immobile patients, such as those being treated in the intensive care unit (ICU) or the operating room. The Practix 360, developed by Philips Healthcare (Best, The Netherlands), features four free-swiveling wheels that allow for 360° movement. It also weighs 30% less than traditional systems at only 175 kg, making it more compact than conventional mobile X-ray systems and allowing it to be easily transported for use in multiple settings.

The flexibility offered by the Practix 360 system is additionally enhanced with a long-life light-emitting diode (LED) collimator light and an optional SID (source-to-image distance) laser light. The LED collimator--one and a half times brighter than conventional collimator lights--creates more contrast and provides a clear X-ray exposure area even under difficult ambient lighting conditions, making it easier for the user to locate the region of interest. At the same time, the SID laser light precisely shows the SID at 100 cm or 110 cm, allowing for quick and accurate positioning and providing radiographers the best possible results.

The system is designed to provide a high quality and economic imaging solution, with long-lasting performance for routine procedures, utilizing a 30 kW generator option that supports a wide range of demanding X-ray examinations.

Additional innovations are associated with the Practix 360, namely, the Practix 360 is the first mobile system with a built-in pediatric filter and high-resolution X-ray tube option, with a short 1 ms exposure time setting and two foci to provide crisp, virtually artifact-free images for pediatric examinations. In addition, the high speed X-ray tube and the high power generator option support the examination of bariatric patients.

When combined with the thermal printing option, available for the dosimeter, the Practix 360 provides technologists with accurate and immediately available dose data that allows them to manage patient dose easily. Its built-in filters also enable lower dose exposure for pediatric patients. Moreover, the remote control option supports the technologist's safety as well as their workflow optimization.

When paired with PCR Eleva (Philips computed radiography), radiography images can be digitized quickly, using a clear and intuitive interface, Philips Eleva, which provides extremely high quality and clear images thanks to Philips Unique image processing technology.

The Practix 360 is designed to last and provide uninterrupted operation, with a robust user-friendly design and solid construction, coupled with the reassurance of the Philips Global Support Service Network. The system is initially available in European Community (CE) labeling countries in the European Economic Area (EEA) including all member states of the European Union (additional countries include Republic of Macedonia, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein), as well as countries in the Asia-Pacific region, Africa, and the Middle East, and will also soon be available in China and Russia.

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