Over the years, digital x-ray technology has evolved from being just an idea to what is now considered as one of the most popular ways for doctors and chiropractors to take x-rays. Technological advancements in the x-ray industry allows for instant storage and access of their digital health records.
Digital X-Rays have become an excellent option for many practicing chiropractors in the United States, as they are able to provide improved quality of care, save time and money by eliminating costly film procedures, and improve back office efficiency through digital submission capabilities. Now with digital imaging and cloud-based PACS solutions, chiropractors are able to view their patient’s information from anywhere at any time.
Features of digital radiography
Digital Radiography (DR) is the most common form of digital x-rays and has been used by chiropractors across the United States since 2003. This type of system can take either single or multiple images at once so it’s perfect for when your patient needs an exam from head to toe.
Digital radiography offers high resolution images that are very easy to read and interpret. It also allows chiropractors to see digital images in real time, which is great for determining the severity and location of a patient’s injuries.
Benefits of digital x-ray systems
Digital x-rays have made many advancements over the years. The digital radiography systems available now are much faster, with less required dose of radiation and quicker download speeds. This is key for chiropractors who need to treat multiple patients at once as they no longer have to worry about waiting on images.
With digital x-ray machines in chiropractic offices across America, it has become easier for chiropractors to see spine alignment, making spinal adjustments or manipulations much less invasive than in years past. Investing in digital x-ray is also more economical than traditional film.
Digital x-rays also offer more clarity in the details which makes finding small injuries easier than ever before. Additional features of digital radiography include automatic image cropping, automatic setting detection and compensation, and digital zoom. Along with digital image stitching that allows multiple exposures to be combined into one high resolution image, these options make interpreting films easy no matter what type of injury your patient might be experiencing.
Drawbacks of digital x-ray systems
While digital x-rays have many benefits, they aren’t without their faults. Digital images are digital files, and digital files can be corrupted or damaged just like any other file on your computer. Digital x-rays are also much less sensitive than standard radiographs so when looking at old injuries that were healed over time you will need more than one image shot from different angles to help diagnose the injury and prepare a treatment plan.
The future of digital x-rays
The future holds even more advancements for digital x-rays that will improve patient experience beyond our current experiences. These technologies could significantly enhance diagnostic accuracy and reduce duplicate x-ray images.
This is why it’s so important for chiropractors to stay on top of this new technology by taking advanced courses in digital imaging offered through professional organizations. In doing so they can help ensure that their patients are getting accurate diagnoses quickly and effectively.
We're happy to say that there are a lot more advancements coming our way for digital x-ray machines in both doctors offices (or chiropractor) and at hospitals throughout America. This means even better technology will come out soon enough!
If you want to know more about how digital x-rays can help your practice, or if you want to look at digital x-ray product options, get in touch with us today.
