NOMAD X-Ray Machine - Essay Example

NOMAD x- ray Machine X ray machines have large importance in medical field, and as the technology field is progressing swiftly there are new machinesintroduced lately. One of the newest technological innovation is NOMAD X – ray machine which has diverse use in medical field. The NOMAD hand held x- ray machine has wide use in medico legal investigation and mass disasters. In cases where the bodies cannot be moved to the X- ray machine this can be used to investigate the body. This portable x- ray machine is highly effective in investigative field where bodies cannot be moved easily and helps in taking image on large scale. NOMAD is a portable has light and uses a 14.4v rechargeable battery to get power. NOMAD is light in weight and reduced size and is designed with an intention for proper operator handing. The beam of the machine is 1.5mm. When using this machine source to skin distance is kept at 20 – 30cm. The peak potential radiographic parameters and anode current are both fixed at60kv and 2.3 MA. The worker can only adjust the irradiation time which can change from 0.01 to 0.99. The NOMAD is a highly advantageous machine as it has the benefit of giving good result with dental imaging. Obtaining post mortem radiograph is an exclusive feature of NOMAD x ray machine. This machine was first used during the disaster of tsunami in Southeast Asia which was manufactured by Aribex. As per ( Cole,2011) “The NOMAD Pro Handheld X-ray System has revolutionized the way dental x-rays are taken. One lightweight 2.5-kg NOMAD does the work of multiple wall-mounted systems, and can be used with digital sensors, phosphor plates, or traditional film”. This x- ray machine was extremely dependable and effective device. Since the machine is of compact size and uses a batter powered operation is has proved useful in relatively austere environment. NOMAD’s first domestic use was in a DVI morgue by DMORT in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina where in conjunction with the DEXIS digital x- ray sensor. It performed excellently and provided the post mortem dental images with consistent and high quality. At present there are two models of NOMAD, the classic model is the original version of the device. As per ( Senn.2013.pg.183) “ NOMAD x-ray machine weighs approximately eight pounds and is shielded in such a way to essentially eliminate all leakage from the body of the device”. The NOMAD x – ray machine does not have the problem like older x- ray machine where the operator has to stand 6ft from the machine when exposing a radiograph. The NOMAD has a back scatter shield that minimizes the amount of back – scatter radiation which helps in creating “zone of safety”. The zone can be optimized by placing the scatter shield at exposure end of the cone. In earlier times, the hand held x- ray machines were prohibited due to the safety concerns. However, the research had provided evidence of the NOMADS safety to all the people used it for the first time. The operator need not have any kind of additional shielding while using this x – ray machine. The newest version of NOMAD Pro has improved shield to prevent the leakage of radiation and its light design weighs only five and one half – pounds. Apart from its compact design the machine has a new technique which is locking system which prohibits the unauthorized use of the machine. At present both the model of the x- ray machine is approved for hand – held use in all states. However, it is necessary to follow the radiation safety measure while using the machines which is its ALARA principles. Whichever model the operator is using it is highly necessary for the operator follow safety measures that mean the operator should not stand in direct line with central beam and should use the lowest exposure time setting possible and maintaining as much possible space from adjacent examination unit. The NOMAD x- ray machine does come with a mounting stand to ease handling. The new portable NOMAD x – ray machine which is light weight and battery energized has the capability of exposing either conventional film or digital images. This x – ray machine does not need control panel because the setting are integrated on the top of the x- ray machine. The NOMAD can be used in dental clinic, mobile clinincs, and nursing home or in any field it is needed. As per (Turner,2013,pg.12-19 ) “ NOMAD instruments were tested for leakage at the case with a Victoreen 451 Survey Meter with a 20cm2 lead aperture over the detector. These results suggest that there is no significant leakage radiation from the NOMAD design”. NOMAD is an innovative x- ray machine with high picture quality and imaging techniques. It has bright LCD display with simple touch controls. It is an optimal device for mobile dentistry and can be easily transported with pull out handles and wheels. It is the perfect option on an outreach mission with x- ray needs. It offers a full color display screen and preset and programmable exposure settings. It has many time saving features and the operator can also stand next to the patient and position to the unit as needed. This machine can be used in all environments and is suitable for children and sedated patients. The operator also does not have to hold the uncomfortable sensors or films in patient’s mouth. Nomad is an x- ray machine which can be used by hospital, home – health, humanitarian service and out of office use. The NOMAD machine eliminates the use of other units and also reduces the retakes by 50%. It also takes half the time than the conventional x- ray machines. As per (Goren,2008,pg 109-112 ) “The NOMAD is easy to set up and use. It meets radiation safety standards and does not require personal dosimetry”.The three devices offered by NOMAD are NOMAD, NOMAD Pro and NOMAD Pro 2. Due to its technology, high level safety, quality and convenience in dental practice is importance is great. References Cole, G. F. (2011). Is Nomad Pro safe?. In http://www.flapsblog.net. Retrieved March 31, 2014, from http://www.flapsblog.net/2011/05/is-nomad-pro-handheld-dental-x-ray.html Goren, A. D. (2008). Radiation exposure with the NOMADTM portable X-ray system. The British Institute of Radiology, 37, 109-112. Senn, D. R. (2013). Manual of Forensic Odontology, Fifth Edition (5thth ed., p. 183). Florida: CRC Press. Turner, C. (2013). Radiation Safety Characteristics of the NOMAD™ Portable X-ray System. Aribex, 23(1), 12-19. Read More