In a recent clinical study published in Gastroenterology Research and Practice, Dr. Khalid Alzimami et al illustrate their findings on a series of 153 ERCP exams between two groups, both performed by seasoned advanced endoscopists. The different groups used different radiation exposure factors and different lead protection as well. Within this study, several key notes were made regarding how to reduce dose during ERCP, as table 8 demonstrates below:

Omega stands by its claim that the e-View was designed from the ground up specifically for ERCP fluoroscopy imaging. Looking at the above table, Omega complies with everything that applies to the equipment itself:

• Increase tube voltage – The e-View has a high power generator with high kV and mA parameters for both radiographic and fluoroscopic imaging
• Reduce fluoroscopic time – The e-View’s enhanced image quality allows you to reduce your fluoroscopy time because of improved visualization
• Storing fluoroscopic images – Did you know not only can we store radiographs, but also fluoro loops and last image holds?
• Avoid magnification ­– Because this study used an image intensified system, this is true – on Flat Panel systems increasing magnification is not a significant dose increase.
• Pulsed fluoroscopy – Standard on all Omega systems
• Reduce image intensifier patient distance – the e-View has the ability to reduce the distance between the patient and image receptor (flat-panel or II), as well as increase the distance from the x-ray tube. Try that with a mobile c-arm.
• Undercouch configuration – this means the x-ray beam is coming from under the table, not over the table. Standard on all Omega systems.
• Fluoroscopy time with alarm – standard on all Omega systems – we also transfer the dose parameters to DICOM (which then goes to your PACS and reporting systems)
• Last Image Hold – standard on all Omega systems, with the option to save all Last Image Hold images automatically as they are acquired
• Automatic Brightness Control – standard on all Omega systems
• Radiation control from inside the room – we give you two places to control the x-ray – from a multi-function foot pedal and from the tableside hand controls. Standard on all Omega systems.
• Radiation barriers – standard from day one, we are the only place you get scatter radiation protection from around the table as well as around the image receptor.
• Mobile suspended screen – this refers to a suspended lead shield – Omega offers these to any customers that may request them, although with our radiation shielding, we eliminate a great deal of scatter radiation.

Omega has been at the forefront of creating a dedicated fluoroscopic imaging system for therapeutic ERCP. Contact us today to see why leading institutions are choosing Omega.
Click here to read the original publication of this research.
Source: www.hindawi.com; Khalid Alzimami et al; 2013.