Most facilities don’t track Cath Lab X-ray tube usage like other modalities. That can make it hard to estimate just how long a Cath Lab X-ray tube will last.
First, let’s look at what affects the lifespan of X-ray tubes in Cath Labs.
The most important factor that affects the lifespan of X-ray tubes is how much it’s used. When a tube runs for a long period at a high power level, it has to work harder, which affects the lifespan. If the X-ray tube is used under more moderate conditions, it will last longer.
Does your case load, types of procedures and patient body types require long runs or high power? If so, your X-ray tube’s lifespan will be shorter. However, there are a few things you can do to extend the life of your Cath Lab.
- Use the proper warmup and shutdown sequences at the beginning and end of every single day of use. This allows temperature changes to be more gradual and less stressful, so your X-ray tube could last longer.
- Provide regular maintenance for your system’s X-ray tube chiller. If your chiller operates at decreased efficiency, it disperses the heat build-up less effectively, which could cause damage.
To keep your equipment running great for as long as possible, provide regular maintenance by qualified service technicians on your X-ray tube, chiller and entire Cath Lab system.
What Do The Experts Say?
The experts at Atlantis Worldwide are able to share some rough estimates about what to expect in X-ray tube usage and lifespans for three of the top manufacturers: Philips, GE and Siemens.
- Philips MRC 200 0407 and MRC 200 0508: the X-ray tube will last around 8 years.
- GE Performix 160A: the X-ray tube will last around 8 years.
- Siemens Megalix CAT and CAT Plus: the X-ray tube will last about 5 years.
Talk To An Expert
Is your current X-ray tube in your Cath Lab showing signs of failure? Do you need to explore options to replace your Cath Lab’s X-ray tube? Talk to the experts at Atlantis Worldwide today. We’ve been helping healthcare facilities, hospitals, Cath Labs, veterinary offices and Urgent Care facilities with their medical imaging needs and questions for 30 years and would love to help you.
To find out more, contact Atlantis Worldwide Today!
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About the author: Vikki Harmonay
