Mobile C-arm for image-guided procedures

The mobile C-arm is an X-ray system that can be used during orthopedic treatments and minimally invasive procedures. It provides X-ray images in real time and allows the treating physician to monitor anatomical structures as well as the position of instruments or injection needles during the procedure.

At the ROC in Aschheim near Munich, we use the mobile C-arm primarily for specific procedures on the spine and joints.

What is a mobile C-arm?

The device's name comes from its C-shaped design. The X-ray source is located at one end, and the image detector at the other. The arc can be moved around the area of the body being examined, allowing X-ray images to be taken from different angles.

The images are displayed directly on a screen. This allows the position of anatomical structures, an injection needle, or a medical instrument to be checked during the procedure and adjusted as needed.

What is the C-arm used for in orthopedics?

The mobile C-arm is not primarily used for standalone diagnostic examinations. It is mainly used for imaging monitoring during certain treatments.

Possible applications include:

• Image-guided spinal injections
• Selected Interventional Pain Treatments
• Targeted treatments for joints
• Checking the position of injection needles or instruments
• certain minimally invasive orthopedic procedures
• Visualization of bony structures during treatment

Whether treatment under C-arm fluoroscopy is appropriate depends on the affected body region, the clinical issue, and the planned procedure.

How does treatment with a C-arm work?

Before the procedure, we will discuss the process, the planned treatment, and any potential risks with you. Any existing images and test results will be taken into account in the planning.

During the procedure, you will lie on a special examination table. The C-arm will be positioned over the relevant area of the body. Depending on the procedure, individual X-rays or short fluoroscopy sequences will be taken.

The treating physician views the images directly on a monitor and can monitor the position of the needle or instrument. Once the procedure is complete, the treated area is dressed, and further instructions are discussed with you.

What are the benefits of visual inspection?

X-ray guidance can provide precise orientation during certain procedures. Potential benefits include:

• direct visualization of bony structures
• Inspection from different viewing angles
• Checking the Position of a Syringe Needle or Instrument
• real-time assessment during the procedure
• Tailoring the procedure to the anatomical conditions

However, the C-arm does not replace the preliminary diagnostic workup. Depending on the clinical question, a physical examination as well as MRI, X-ray, CT, or ultrasound imaging may be required beforehand.

C-arm or ultrasound monitoring?

Both the C-arm and ultrasound can be used for image guidance during orthopedic procedures. Which method is more appropriate depends on the target structure and the clinical issue at hand.

Ultrasound is particularly well-suited for visualizing soft tissues, tendons, muscles, fluid collections, and superficial structures. The C-arm is especially effective at visualizing bony landmarks and can therefore be used during certain procedures on the spine or joints.

The choice of procedure is made on a case-by-case basis depending on the planned procedure.

Schedule a consultation in Aschheim