By Michael L. Sganga

In today’s healthcare landscape, a clinician is only as good as the tools at their disposal. Technological advancements in the medical field are improving performance and effectiveness for orthopedic surgeons and other related clinicians, resulting in better patient experiences and results. With regards to the orthopedic field in particular, C-arms have traditionally been the equipment of choice in surgical suites.

The evolution of the mini C-arm in recent years has brought excellent image quality and timesaving, user-friendly features to the operating room for a variety of extremity procedures. In my experience as a foot and ankle surgeon, I’ve handled a wide range of cases and have had access to a variety of orthopedic equipment, including various mini C-arm systems. Regardless of procedure, imaging has become indispensable and has only improved in recent past, enabling me to excel as a clinician and improve patient outcomes.

C-arm systems are essential for fluoroscopic intraoperative imaging during procedures, providing immediate high-resolution X-ray images and thus allowing clinicians to monitor progress and course correct in real time. Although designed for cases requiring greater flexibility, the size and sometimes awkward and restricted range of motion and arc of older or larger C-arm systems can still force clinicians to contort the patient around the device, rather than the other way around. Additionally, these systems can suffer from a reduced field of view, requiring numerous X-rays in order to produce a complete visual.

The more compact size and fluid movement of mini C-arm systems allow me to easily and quickly telescope around a patient, providing diversified imaging options and angles while assuring accurate alignment. Newer more agile systems, such as Hologic’s Fluoroscan InSight Mini C-arm, offer a larger field of view, higher quality images, and modern ergonomic design, resulting in more efficient imaging, improved accuracy and streamlined procedures. State-of-the-art features like an HD touchscreen interface and a rotating flat detector only enhance the improved workflow, helping me deliver the best results and patient experience.

The speed, accuracy and ease associated with this technology is useful and essential for a multitude of procedures, from flat foot reconstruction to intricate fracture cases. My colleagues and I routinely utilize the hospital’s mini C-arm, as we’re all aware of the benefits the system can bring to any and all cases. In the operating room, the staff’s ability to move and flow seamlessly during a procedure is key.

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