Digital radiography for the field: a portable prototype.
The US military has been investigating methods for improving radiographic support for field medical operations. The purpose of this project was to develop and test a portable digital radiography (DR) system to determine its feasibility for field operations. A prototype portable digital radiography device was designed and assembled using a commercially available DR sensor. The sensor and necessary hardware were mounted into a ruggedized aluminum case. The device underwent testing in the hospital and field environments. The prototype rapidly provided digital radiographs in a variety of settings. Shortcomings of the device affecting usability and reliable operation were identified. The successful construction and operation of a portable digital radiography prototype shows that such a device is feasible for field applications. The prototype requires further modification and testing to improve its usability and reliability, and to explore other potential applications, both military and civilian.
Cho
Kenneth H
KH
Department of Radiology, Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, HI 96859-5000, USA. cho@amedd.army.mil
Freckleton
Michael W
MW
D003199:Computer Systems; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D008887:Military Medicine / Q000295:instrumentation*; D011856:Radiographic Image Enhancement / Q000295:instrumentation*; D014481:United States