1. PORTABLE AND MOBILE
RADIOGRAPHY
By AALIA ABDULLAH
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR RADIOLOGY

2. Machines used for severely ill and unable patients, who cannot be
brought in the radiology department.
• Can be broadly divided into two types:
1.Portable and
2.Mobile equipment
Mobile and portable radiography both involve the use of x-ray
imaging equipment that can be transported to different locations
within a healthcare facility

3. • Portable Radiography:
1.Equipment: Portable radiography involves the use of smaller, more
compact X-ray units that are designed for maximum portability. These
units are lightweight and often handheld or easily carried.
2.Applications: Portable X-ray units are commonly used in various healthcare
settings, including nursing homes, home healthcare, clinics, and field
hospitals. They are particularly useful for point-of-care imaging and for
imaging patients who are bedridden or in remote locations.
3.Mobility: Portable X-ray units are highly maneuverable and can be easily
transported by a single operator. They are designed for use at the patient's
bedside or in non-traditional healthcare settings.

4. PORTABLE X RAY MACHINE

5. • Image Quality: While portable X-ray units are capable of producing
diagnostic images, they may have limitations in terms of image quality
compared to larger, stationary X-ray machines. However, advances in
technology have improved the image quality of portable units
Power Source: Portable X-ray units are designed to operate on battery
power, They often come with rechargeable batteries, The batteries can be
recharged between uses.
• making them suitable for use in locations where access to electrical
outlets may be limited.

6. • Instructions to Be Followed for Portable Radiography:
• When conducting portable radiography, radiologic technologists and operators
should adhere to the following instructions and safety protocols:
1.Equipment Inspection: Before use, inspect the portable X-ray unit for any damage
or malfunctions. Ensure that the unit is in proper working condition.
2.Patient Identification: Verify the patient's identity to ensure that the correct
patient is being imaged.
3.Radiation Protection: Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such
as lead aprons and gloves, and ensure that the patient is also shielded when
needed.
4.Collimation: Properly collimate the X-ray beam to limit the exposed area to the
region of interest.
5.Distance: Maintain a safe distance from the X-ray source during exposure, and
use remote control features if available.

7. 6.Exposure Parameters: Set exposure parameters (e.g., exposure time, mAs, kVp)
appropriately for the specific imaging procedure and the patient's condition.
7.Patient Positioning: Ensure accurate patient positioning to achieve the desired
imaging view while minimizing radiation exposure to adjacent structures.
8.Communication: Instruct the patient to remain still during the exposure to prevent
motion artifacts. Inform them about the procedure and the importance of following
instructions.
9.Radiation Safety: Educate healthcare workers and bystanders about radiation
safety principles and the need to maintain a safe distance during exposures.

8. 10.Image Review: Review the acquired images for diagnostic quality before leaving the
patient's location. Retake images if necessary.
11.Secure Equipment: Safely stow the portable X-ray unit, secure any trailing cables,
and properly store the equipment after use.
12.Documentation: Document the procedure, including exposure parameters and any
protective measures taken.

9. MOBILE RADIOGRAPHY
Ward radiography is often referred to as mobile radiography
1.Equipment: Mobile radiography typically refers to the use of larger X-ray machines
mounted on wheels or a mobile stand. These machines are capable of producing
high-quality diagnostic X-ray images and are commonly found in hospitals.
2.Applications: Mobile radiography units are used for a wide range of applications,
including bedside imaging of hospitalized patients, imaging in emergency
departments and intensive care units, and imaging in various hospital wards. They
are especially useful for patients who are unable to move or be transported to a
dedicated radiology department.
3.Mobility: While mobile X-ray machines are on wheels and can be moved relatively
easily within a healthcare facility, they are usually not as compact or maneuverable
as portable X-ray units. They are typically transported by a radiologic technologist or
radiographer and require a power source to operate.

11. 1.Image Quality: Mobile X-ray units are equipped with high-quality X-ray tubes and
detectors, allowing for the acquisition of detailed and diagnostic images.
2.Power Source: Mobile units are usually plugged into electrical outlets within the
hospital or healthcare facility for power.
• Mobile Radiography: Mobile X-ray units are typically powered by electrical outlets
within the healthcare facility. They are designed to be wheeled to the patient's
location and plugged into a suitable power source.

12. • Instructions to Be Followed for Mobile Radiography
• Equipment Inspection and Preparation:
• Before use, inspect the mobile X-ray unit for any damage or malfunctions. Ensure that the
unit is in proper working condition.
• Verify that the X-ray machine is properly calibrated and that exposure parameters are set
correctly for the specific imaging procedure.
• 2. Patient Identification and Preparation:
• Verify the patient's identity and confirm that you have the correct patient by checking
identification bands or asking the patient to confirm their identity.
• Communicate with the patient about the procedure, explaining what to expect and
addressing any questions or concerns.
• Ensure that the patient is appropriately positioned to obtain the desired imaging view.
• ollowed for MOBILE Radiography:

13. • 3. Radiation Protection:
• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including lead aprons and thyroid
collars, to protect both the patient and the operator from unnecessary radiation exposure.
• If possible, keep a safe distance from the X-ray source during exposure.
• Shield areas of the patient's body that are not part of the imaging area to minimize
radiation exposure to surrounding tissues.
• 4. Collimation and Exposure Parameters:
• Properly collimate the X-ray beam to limit the exposed area to the region of interest. This
helps minimize unnecessary radiation exposure to adjacent structures.
• Set exposure parameters (e.g., exposure time, mAs, kVp) appropriately for the specific
imaging procedure and the patient's condition.
• Use the lowest radiation dose necessary to achieve diagnostic image quality.

14. • Communication and Patient Cooperation:
• Instruct the patient to remain still during the exposure to prevent motion artifacts.
• Clearly communicate the importance of following instructions for radiation safety.
• Use appropriate communication techniques to reassure and calm the patient,
especially if they are anxious or in pain.
• 6. Radiation Safety:
• Educate healthcare workers and bystanders about radiation safety principles and
the need to maintain a safe distance during exposures.
• Use warning signs, verbal announcements, or other methods to alert others in the
area when the X-ray unit is in use.

15. • Image Review and Retakes:
• Review the acquired images for diagnostic quality immediately after acquisition.
Ensure that the images meet the diagnostic criteria.
• If images are of poor quality or if the anatomy of interest is not adequately
visualized, consider retaking the images with necessary adjustments.
• 8. Secure Equipment:
• After completing the imaging procedure, safely stow the mobile X-ray unit. Ensure
that it is securely parked, and any trailing cables are properly managed.
• Store the equipment in a designated area when not in use.

16. • Documentation:
• Document the procedure in the patient's medical record, including exposure
parameters used, any protective measures taken, and the diagnostic outcome.
• 10. Radiation Safety Training :
• Ensure that healthcare workers operating the mobile X-ray unit have received
appropriate training in radiation safety and proper imaging techniques.