To perform satisfactory medical X-rays, a patient should be positioned so that the part of their body that must be examined is precisely located between an X-ray source and a detector. But this process is not always as simple as it sounds. Medical professionals who perform X-ray imaging can face challenges when it comes to placing patients in the correct position. X-ray chairs are an effective solution to make radiography imaging easier and more comfortable for clinicians and their patients.
What is an X-ray chair?
An X-ray examination chair is a special type of medical chair designed to help health professionals obtain optimal X-ray images. Adaptive chairs are particularly beneficial when taking X-rays of:
- elderly patients
- mobility-impaired people
- those who have difficulty walking or standing up
- individuals with posture differences
Asking these patients to get up and sit down during radio imaging is not ideal. This is a challenging and time-consuming task for patients who struggle to move by themselves. And moving patients through a variety of different devices can cause them discomfort.
Thanks to X-ray chairs, medical imaging procedures can be handled faster and with less strain on patients and those tending to them, such as technologists, radiologists and other medical specialists. The best X-ray chairs are adjustable to accommodate a variety of body types while providing support for patients, ensuring that X-ray procedures can be completed safely and quickly.
Clinical chairs for disability accommodations
What are the types of X-ray chairs?
X-ray chairs can be designed specifically for distinct imaging procedures, such as mammograms and dental X-ray imaging. Some medical imaging chairs have an adjustment function that allows them to fulfill diverse purposes.
Some notable X-ray examination chair models include:
- X-ray chairs for upper extremities: Allow patients to stay in a stable position so X-ray images can be obtained. They have armrests and a stable base, making it easier for patients to get up and sit down. They also have gliding wheels to help healthcare workers move the chair easily across the floor.
- Thoracic X-ray chairs: Provide optimal X-rays of the thorax area. They come equipped with adjustable chair hands and backrests. They provide an ergonomic and stable work surface for clinical staff.
- Dental X-ray chairs: Can be adjusted to facilitate dental X-ray processes. Some X-ray chairs have been designed specifically to aid with orthodontic and prophylaxis procedures.
- Mammography chairs: Designed to make mammograms more efficient and comfortable for patients, helping them sit comfortably without restricting their movement. Sophisticated mammography chair models include electric height adjustment controls.
- Spinal X-ray chairs: Used to help people with conditions such as scoliosis and spinal stenosis so they can experience an X-ray that is comfortable and pain-free. These patients might not be able to stand or sit still. These chairs help patients sit and keep them from moving during imaging enabling a clear image to be taken.
What to look for in an X-ray chair?
To best fulfill its purpose, an X-ray chair must be functional, easy to adjust, and compatible with other X-ray equipment. All X-ray chairs should focus on ergonomics and flexibility. An X-ray chair can also come equipped with many features that are beneficial to doctors, nurses, and patients, such as:
Powered controls
Controls for height adjustment are a necessity for X-ray chairs. They guarantee that every patient has the seat height they require to be examined correctly. These chairs make it easy to get the patient placed at the right height and minimize needing to move the patient.
Safety and flexibility
Every component of an X-ray chair should be developed with patient safety and stability in mind. For example, the chair should be able to withstand at least 300 pounds so it can be used to examine individuals of various weights. Controls to adjust the headrest, armrests, seatbelts, and safety brake should be accessible and easy to use.
Modular design
A modular chair design allows for more accurate positioning and scanning. When X-ray chair components such as the backrest are adjustable for height, angle, and depth, the chair can be repurposed for a wide range of uses. This also allows the same chair to be used for multiple types of examinations while accommodating different patients and a variety of situations.
Comfort
Keeping patients and health professionals comfortable during X-ray procedures is crucial. This enables the most accurate imaging and makes it easier for medical staff to work with patients so they don’t suffer injuries while doing their jobs.
X-ray examination chairs should distribute weight evenly and effectively to prevent patients from slipping out of the chair when the seat is placed into an angled position. And the back edge of the chair’s seat should have the ability to be lowered to provide ample sitting depth.
A radiolucent backrest
Specialized medical adaptive seating such as the REAL X-ray chairs are designed with adjustable elements to accommodate a wide range of individuals. The chair offers support for the patient while enabling a safe procedure by using powered height and tilt controls and foldable armrests. It also features a radiolucent backrest for the purpose of taking X-rays of the back and spine while the patient is seated.
The REAL X-ray chair makes X-ray imaging easier than ever
How much does an X-ray chair cost?
The price of X-ray chairs can vary significantly depending on the chair’s features. For example, they can be powered or manual. They might have a tilt, brake, or footrests. Some chairs are more portable than others. When comparing different options, it’s important to look for a model that is easy to use and adjust during procedures. It’s also recommended that the chair you choose has its quality certifications and a good warranty.
Learn more about the pricing of EMP Living’s X-ray chair
Discover the REAL X-ray chair
The REAL X-ray chair has been designed to provide maximum safety and comfort for patients. Every part of this chair is adjustable to better accommodate patients of all shapes and sizes. REAL X-ray chairs were designed by experts to be extremely comfortable while ensuring patient safety.
These chairs have been designed in close collaboration with Swedish radiologists with a focus on providing the best safety, ergonomics, and comfort. They have powered height and tilt controls and foldable armrests that allow technicians to quickly position patients for imaging tests.
REAL X-ray chairs are reliable. They are equipped with a convenient, fully welded underframe and a safe, easy-to-operate brake. Users can choose manual or remote controls, which are operated using either a pedal or level. Patients can be placed at the most advantageous angle thanks to a mechanical protractor capable of offering 90 degrees of movement at 5-degree intervals.
REAL X-ray chairs have radiolucent backrests to allow healthcare professionals to obtain X-rays of the back and spine while patients remain comfortably in place. These backrests can be quickly aligned with the “cross” of the patient, making it possible to obtain the most accurate positioning and scanning orientations. All backrests are adjustable in height, angle, and depth, making the chairs useful for many types of examinations.
The maximum user weight of the REAL X-ray chairs is 330 pounds, which offers safety and comfort to patients of all sizes. The seat height is adjustable and able to lift a patient up to 30 inches from the ground. The entire chair is customizable, giving healthcare professionals a wide range of options when it comes to getting the specifications they need.
REAL X-ray chair users have many options for adaptive chair accessories, including:
- seat cushions
- backrests
- neck rests
- armrests
- footrests
- wheels
- brake controls (including remote controls)
- push bars
- tables
- calf support
- knee stops
- leg dividers
- side supports
- trunk supports
- amputation supports
- seat belts
To provide patients with the best sitting experience, the REAL X-ray chair seats have a layer of foam to provide optimal stability and comfort. Pressure is distributed evenly, preventing users from sliding off the seat. Developed and manufactured in-house in Sweden, REAL X-ray chairs are EMC-tested at Intertek and approved in accordance with EN 60601-1-1 and EN 60601-1-2. This guarantees that customers can expect many years of safe operation.
