Core Specimens
Why Dedicated Specimen Radiography?
The Issue. Doctors performing core needle biopsies need to ensure that the core specimens they remove contain a representative sample of microcalcifications that were identified on a mammogram before releasing the patient from the procedure. To accomplish this, the breast must be removed from compression and the stereotactic table imaging system used to x-ray the specimens or the specimens must be transported from the stereotactic suite to a mammography unit or other imaging system where they can be x-rayed. The time required before releasing the patient from the procedure is therefore a function of the distance to the processing site and the availability of an x-ray system in a busy breast center or the time to remove the breast from compression (and then potentially have to reposition).
The Complications. The specimen may have to be transported down the hall, to another wing, or even to another building. Once it arrives, busy mammography suite resources, both personnel and equipment, must be made available to image the specimen. If the mammography unit is a film-based system, additional time is then required to process the film. If the stereotactic table imaging system is used to x-ray the specimens, the patient potentially has to be repositioned and undergo the procedure again if a representative sample of the microcalcifications were not removed in the first set of core specimens.
The Solution: Digital Specimen Radiography. Our digital specimen radiography systems, the DX-50 or MX-20 can be located directly in the stereotactic suite, only steps from the stereo table. The self-contained systems produce a high-resolution digital image in a matter of seconds that can be viewed on the flat panel monitor to ensure that the core specimens contain microcalcifications. The images can also be sent to a PACS network for archival and hardcopy printing. If portability is required for use in multiple suites or space in the stereo suite is at a premium, the DX-50 is the best choice. If film capability or significant additional magnification is desired, the MX-20 is the best choice.
The Benefits.
For the patient:
- Minimizes overall time patient is in prone position and/or breast is in compression
- Reduces time required to determine if additional specimens are necessary
For the surgeon, OR staff, and facility:
- Improved standard of care for patient
- Shorter procedure time frees up doctors, staff, and suite for other patients
- Significant cost savings per procedure
Why Faxitron?
Faxitron specimen radiography systems have been in use for more than 30 years with more than 5,000 units installed in hospitals and laboratories worldwide. In 1998, we introduced the first CCD-based digital specimen radiography unit and continue to be at the forefront of digital radiography today. Our 5 cm x 5 cm and 12 cm x 12 cm cameras are single-chip CMOS detectors directly deposited with cesium iodide for the scintillator. This, in conjunction with the smallest focal spot sources on the market and our easy-to-use software with advanced Automatic Exposure Control, delivers superior images the first time, every time, in less time.
Whether your need is for a portable system or a conventional desktop specimen radiography system, Faxitron provides a unit that will meet your needs.
