The role of portable X-ray machines in aiding patients in remote areas

Portable X-ray machines are becoming increasingly vital in healthcare, with the ability to save lives and improve access to medical imaging. Radiographer Sam Pilkington emphasizes the benefits of portable machines, which can be used for acutely unwell patients or in remote locations where transportation is a challenge. These devices remove the burden of transporting patients to hospitals and instead bring the X-ray equipment to them. The use of portable X-ray machines is growing rapidly, with the global market expected to reach $14 billion by 2028, fueled in part by the COVID-19 pandemic. There are two types of portable X-ray machines: mobile machines on wheels and ultraportable devices that can be carried by a single person. The ultraportable devices have been tested in remote locations like the Orkney Islands in Scotland, where they significantly reduced the non-attendance rate for X-ray appointments. Manufacturers such as Fujifilm and OR Technology are seeing great interest in portable X-ray machines from emerging markets, particularly for screening and diagnosing diseases like tuberculosis (TB) in developing countries. Previously, lack of access to X-rays hindered TB detection, especially in remote areas. Portable X-ray machines, often equipped with artificial intelligence software for image processing, have revolutionized TB screening by enabling on-site detection. The AI capabilities have greatly improved the accuracy and speed of reading X-rays. However, concerns about radiation exposure exist, as portable machines release ionizing radiation. While shielding is limited in portable setups, ample space and distance between healthcare workers and the equipment compensate for this. Image quality and the size of components are also considerations in portable X-ray machines. Advances in technology have made current portable machines comparable to fixed units in terms of image quality. However, limitations still exist, such as the need for multiple exposures if a body part cannot be captured in a single shot and restricted battery life or data storage. Additionally, some systems labeled as portable may still require additional equipment, increasing their weight and transportation difficulty. Cost is another challenge, with portable X-ray machines ranging from $47,000 to $66,000, not including warranties, installation, and software. The hope is that as more manufacturers enter the market, competition will drive down prices, making this modern technology more accessible to all who need it. The vision for the future is to ensure that everyone has access to modern, digital, and ultra-portable X-ray machines with AI capabilities.