‘Benefits Unfolded’: A Breakdown Analysis Digital Radiography and Its Advantages

The global digital radiography Industry size stood at USD 1,905.5 million in 2018 and is projected to reach USD 2,978.3 million by the end of 2026, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.0%. 

Radiography is the process of assessing radiographs or images of internal organs, tissues, and bones, taken through x-ray sensitive panels. It is mostly used for diagnostic purposes. The shift from conventional radiography systems have led to optimum efficacies. Although x-ray and radiography are misconstrued as the same things, that is certainly not the case. An x-ray is the obtained when the human body is exposed to radiations, whereas a radiograph is the resultant of the processed x-ray. An x-ray cannot actually be seen by the naked eye and to make it visible and easy for assessment, it is converted into a radiograph. The process of radiography finds applications across several healthcare-based operations. 

The primary difference between a digital radiography and computed radiography is that the latter involves a full-fledged mechanical system and CR cassettes instead of traditional film cassettes. Digital radiography is normally preferred over computed radiography, accounting to enhanced images and improved efficacies. The benefits offered by digital radiography are summarized below:

• Quality of Care

The equipment used in any healthcare diagnosis method has major say in patient satisfaction. An efficient system may not necessarily be bigger in size. The use of large and complex equipment may lead to patient discomfort. Digital radiography involves the use of smaller equipment and provides better response. Moreover, digital radiography reduces exposure to radiation by over 70%. This accounts for lesser side effects and health risks. Thus, digital radiography offers high quality of care. 

• No Chemicals Involved

Several x-ray imaging and radiography processes involve the use of automatic film processors. The use of film processors creates the need for fixing solutions and a few chemical agents. These agents can pose a threat to the human body as well as create uncertainty among the patients, towards their use. Additionally, people would normally prefer a non-invasive mode of diagnosis. Use of chemicals leave patients exposed to potential side effects. Thus, digital radiography is normally preferred over other modes, owing to elimination of the use of chemical agents. 

• Fast Image Processing 

Digital radiography involves the use of equipment that enables quick image transfer. Moreover, it enables faster image processing and churns out excellent results in no time. This eliminates the need for conventional processes that would go on for longer durations. Time saving is one of the primary reason behind the adoption of digital radiography. The processed images are instantly stored and made ‘ready-to-transfer’ within seconds. 

• Enhanced Image Quality

The sensitivity involved in x-ray images are unparalleled. X-ray images are used to study minute details. This creates the need for high precision and accuracy of the images that are obtained after diagnosis. Recent technological advancements in digital radiography have yielded enhanced images and increased the overall efficiency of treatment and diagnosis. Digital radiography can bring out fractures of minute size and detail. The improvements in image quality is one of the primary benefits offered by digital radiography.

Although digital radiography is priced a tad above its process counterparts, the method pans out well in long-term scenario. The total upfront cost may be high, but they can bring out successful returns within a few years. Thus, digital radiography systems are preferred over its alternatives, owing to the fact that it is much more efficient, provides accurate results, is faster, and produces images of the highest order. Altogether, digital radiography provides an enhanced end-user experience. The growing investment towards the development of digital radiography will lead to several innovations in the coming years.