THE EVOLUTION OF X-RAYS: DIAGNOSTIC IMPORTANCE, RECENT INNOVATIONS, AND MAINTENANCE BEST PRACTICES

Abstract

The discovery of X-ray by Wilhelm C. Röntgen in 1895 is of ideal utility in various branches of medicine. The high penetrating power of X-ray finds a broad range of diagnostic applications, including bones, denser tissues, and various other medical fields. The utility of a single ray covers various and broader fields of applications in medicine. Multistage innovations in diagnosis enhance the feasibility of X-ray diagnosis and treatment in the medical field. There is a frequent need for upgrading equipment based on several factors, including sensitivity and patient safety. New innovations, namely Computed Radiography, Digital Radiography, Fluoroscopy-DR, and Cone Beam Computed Tomography, enhanced the use of X-ray in various forms of dynamic view applications. In mammography screening, a DR system combined with an advanced analytical post-processor may improve cancer detection sensitivity based on breast density, which is also applicable for other radiographic expertise, including chest radiography and head computed tomography. Even though there are numerous benefits of recent innovations, the maintenance of equipment is undergoing a unique approach that is compatible with rarely shifting detection technology. A regular check-up is performed during a periodic overhaul, which is basically the same for the euro CT system, irrespective of detector technology. As an alternative, visual chart-like quality control tests are proposed for daily use, which are quite common worldwide. In particular, large deficiencies in uniformity in the tangential FOV of CR-based systems require immediate action. These types of huge in-field failures of a CR-based system are rarely observed in DR systems. DR systems may improve continuous clinical use and retention peak analysis with regard to incident X-ray intensity as compared with CR systems. No answers have been given yet, on what happens to CR systems that have to be taken out of service. Further investigation is needed to acquire a better knowledge of DR systems and compare them with CR systems in terms of clinical usability and maintenance conformity.