The purpose of a Cephalostat is to hold the patient's head and film in the
proper alignment , to aim the x-ray beam, and limit scatter radiation. The
quality of the finished x-ray is a function of the choice of film,
intensifying screens, and developing technique. The key to quality X-ray
is quality film, screens and developing. Spend what it takes to get the
best. The Cephalostat is another story. Get what you need, and pay no
more.
Features to Consider
Anterior-Posterior Exposures
X-ray view from front to back. This view is becoming more widely used
as airway development and suture expansion increases.
Collimator
Actually a beam limiter since they do not make X-ray beams parallel.
Their function is to line up the central beam and variable apertures.
Variable apertures are best because they can be adjusted to fit the
application, and can be moved to a different X-ray head.
Installation
Most walls and corners are slightly crooked. X-ray beams are absolutely
straight. Coordinating the two can be tricky. Look for units with plenty
of adjustability, and a mounting system that is simple.
Wall Mount Units
Attach to wall and do not move. The patient is moved up and down to fit
the unit. Uses Standard dental X-rays. More inconvenient than moveable
units, but a practical solution in general offices, due to cost. Consists
of two parts, head-film holder + beam limiter - X-ray aimer. Be sure both
units can be easily removed from wall to avoid interfering with other
operatory functions.
Ease of Operation
Except for the first film or two, your assistant will be using the
Cephalostat. Be sure it is easy to use and difficult to misuse. Be wary of
superfluous adjustments and gadgets. Look for knobs on things she should
adjust, and screws and nuts on things she shouldn't.
Midline Fixation
It is important to maintain a consistent distance between X-ray source,
midline, and the film. This requires a Cephalostat with a midline
centering system and a pre-set X-ray to film distance.
Ear Rod Supports
The vertical pieces holding the ear rods are usually wood or plastic.
Wood is best because it shows least on the film. The more highly finished
the supports, the more they show on the film.
Back-up Service
Each installation is unique. Most installations go easily and require
no help. Look for a system that offers help after the sale to answer
installation questions.
Dr. Hall
Talks about
Cephalometrics
and the
DUOCEPH
Cephalostat
After teaching orthodontics for 17 years with the United States Dental
Institute, it became apparent to me that start up costs for the generalist
doing orthodontics was prohibitive. The Cephalometric units on the market
were artificially overpriced, ungainly, and overloaded with unusable
features. There also seemed to be a lack of clear information available as
to what features were necessary, what made one device better then another
, and what service was needed after the sale.
In developing the DUOCEPH, it was essential that it be high quality,
adaptable to any operatory configuration, attractive, and low cost. It
took longer than I expected, but the DUOCEPH is truly a well built, no
nonsense, full featured Cephalostat, at a price you can afford.
Gary E Hall, DDS
additional xray supplies available at: http://www.imagingsystms.com/
Pricing
Duoceph 699.00 + S&H
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