Digital x-ray system provides whole spine imaging at Spire St Anthony’s Hospital

Spire St Anthony’s Hospital has unveiled a DR 600 x-ray unit from Agfa Radiology Solutions in a refurbished room. The fully digital system has the capability to perform full leg length and whole spine images, neither of which were previously possible at the North Cheam hospital. NHS and private patients will benefit from the equipment.

X-rays performed with the new system cover all plain film imaging of the body, including bone and joint imaging to diagnose fractures, dislocations, arthritis and bone infections; chest imaging to detect respiratory conditions such as pneumonia and lung tumours; and abdominal imaging to identify bowel obstructions, kidney stones and abnormal air patterns.

The technology allows radiographers to alter the position of the x-ray tube from the control panel, which reduces the need for manual handling by staff. Combining auto-positioning technology with the system’s ability to x-ray quickly provides enhanced image quality, which improves diagnosis and reduces the radiation dosage to patients.

Radiology manager Karin Paton said: “The system uses advanced image stitching technology to enable us to capture full leg length and whole spine images for the first time, opening the door to more accurate diagnoses.”

Picture: front row: radiology manager Karin Paton, specialist radiographer Huda Derweesh, radiographer Wena Sanchez, specialist radiographers Louise Barnett-Alp and Maria Tubio, with imaging administrator/coordinator Namitha Naik. Back row: CT lead radiographer Juanita Cunnington, consultant radiologist Dr Pawan Patel and RDA Lee Chidwick.

Read this report on page 3 of the October 2025 issue of RAD Magazine.