title: An audit of the safe use of the mini c-arm image intensifier in the out-patient setting.
abstract: Mini C-arm image intensifiers are used commonly in surgery of the upper limb. With relatively low doses of emitted ionising radiation, portability and superior quality of image, they are a useful aid to the operating surgeon. However, these benefits are not so often used outside the theatre setting. This paper examines the use of a mini C-arm image intensifier in the out-patient clinic and presents an audit of 100 consecutive out-patients. We reviewed the potential benefits and effects on their care pathway. We also look at the specific radiation protection issues of the mini C-arm image intensifier in the out-patients clinic. We believe use of the mini C-arm image intensifier in the out-patient setting may speed treatment and reduce the cost of treatment.
authors.affiliation: Pulvertaft Hand Centre, Derbyshire Royal Infirmary, London Road, Derby, UK. saiidyhasham@hotmail.com
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Hasham
authors.forename: F D
authors.initials: FD
authors.lastname: Burke
authors.forename: S J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Evans
authors.forename: M K
authors.initials: MK
authors.lastname: Arundell
authors.forename: D N
authors.initials: DN
authors.lastname: Quinton
mesh_terms: D000554:Ambulatory Care Facilities / Q000592:standards*; D004867:Equipment Design; D004869:Equipment Safety / Q000592:standards; D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006230:Hand Injuries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D008485:Medical Audit; D011835:Radiation Protection / Q000592:standards; D011859:Radiography; D011873:Radiology Information Systems; D012015:Reference Standards; D012984:Software; D006113:United Kingdom; D014963:X-Ray Intensifying Screens / Q000592:standards*