What is a C-arm?
A C-arm (short for “computerized axial tomography”) is an apparatus that attaches to an X-ray generator/detector and provides three-dimensional images as it rotates around the patient. It’s used by radiologists during imaging sessions, typically with CT scanning. The medical community has also begun using C-arm devices for other procedures. One example is a C-arm fluoroscopy, which is used in the most advanced MRI facilities to guide tracking devices and adjust them with millimeter precision during procedures.
Finding C-arm rentals company is not an easy task because, unlike other medical equipment, these items are typically in high demand. This article will discuss various factors a potential investor should consider before deciding on a C-arm rental company as a potential investment.
-
Upfront costs:
Rental companies typically have several rental units available. Some rental companies provide only a certain number of units while others offer a limited number of units per day (if you want to rent ten machines every day, you’ll need to contact them separately).
If you plan to purchase as many machines as you can from a single rental company, then expect to be charged a very high monthly fee. In extreme cases, a one-time payment may be required. On the other hand, it is not uncommon to find a company that will give you a monthly rate and allows you to use their machines as much as you want for that price.
Some companies also handle the service calls for their machines; others leave that job to their clients.
-
Maintenance:
Rental units that require service calls need to be sent back to the manufacturer for maintenance. If you do not have an in-house maintenance department, you’ll need to hire an outside company for that job.
If you have an experienced in-house technician or technician familiar with C-arm equipment, then it is possible to service and maintain the rented machines yourself. Some rental companies will provide you with a limited warranty on their C-arm rental machines; other companies offer no warranties at all. A limited-use warranty may be required if the equipment is used in an experimental setting.
-
Rental rates:
If you are considering renting C-arm units and maintaining them yourself, it is important to understand the rates of the various items. In a typical setting, you will find three types of items: 3D C-arms, 2D C-arms, and plain X-ray machines (i.e. without a C-arm).
If you choose to rent 3D C-arms (for example, from Vet X-ray), then you need to decide how many machines you will need and what kind of X-ray machine the rental companies will provide. You can use the item for any kind of X-ray procedure, but some companies may not be able to handle extremely complex procedures like heart scans or MRIs.
At Pacific Healthcare Imaging we provide 3D C-arm and other imaging systems available for rent and if you are looking for a rental company for high-end imaging systems, you should give us a call. We will be more than happy to help with any of your imaging needs.
