C-arm is also called X-ray image intensifier

     A C-arm is an overhead X-ray image intensifier that provides real-time detailed viewing of anatomic structures using fluoroscopic dyes. It is considered to be a non-invasive device because no part of the equipment enters the body, making it safe to use for screening before, during and after other types of procedures.

         Outpatient studies


      C-arm imaging is used for many types of studies including those of the digestive, reproductive, coronary and venous systems to identify potential medical problems such as stomach ulcers, infertility and coronary artery occlusion.

      Line placement


      C-arms can be small and portable, making them ideal for use in visually guiding physicians to place stents and catheters. Patients undergoing chemotherapy typically receive a PICC line catheter so that medication can be delivered intravenously over a long period of time.

      Orthopedics


      Image intensifiers are frequently used in orthopedics to help place hardware needed to stabilize bones and joints, for vascular and neurological imaging to make sure that surrounding tissues remain healthy and to help guide surgeons operating on delicate areas such as the spine.

      Surgery


      There are many surgical uses including real-time viewing of the gallbladder, liver, heart and bony structures.
      This equipment can provide viewing assistance to guarantee precision during surgery.

      Pain management


      Image intensifiers are used in pain clinics to help guide needle placement into joints for injection of local anesthetics. Pain-relieving medication can be inserted into shoulders and knees with little or no damage to the surrounding structures.

      Image intensifiers are usually set up for two purposes. For either plain fluoroscopy or digital subtraction angiography (DSA). All image intensifiers are set up with software capable of adjusting settings to suit different user requirements, depending on the procedure and body area being imaged. In simple flouroscopy for example, imaging of the throat would not require the same amount of exposure as that of the abdomen. And on DSA capable models, preset programs are available which enables the user to decide a rate of how many images or frames per second are acquired.