UK training program leads way on digital radiography

The University of Kentucky and Swissray, a maker of Direct Digital X-Ray, have completed what is thought to be the first-of-its-kind training program in Direct Digital Radiography. The three-day intensive training program is designed to educate radiology technologists from across the country on using the cutting-edge technology as the profession begins to follow UK’s lead.

UK currently has four Direct Digital machines, the most in the region, making it the clear choice to host this training workshop and once again demonstrate UK’s progressive approach to providing advanced medical care and the latest health information. UK plans to conduct the training program monthly as radiology departments across the country make the switch to digital radiography.

Direct Digital Radiography provides high quality radiographic images in seconds and at a significantly lower cost than conventional radiography, said Sheryl Abercrombie, director of Diagnostic Radiology.

“With the digital equipment, images can be transferred electronically,” Abercrombie said. “In practical terms, this means patients will no longer carry X-rays between doctor offices. And, no more painful repositioning of the injury on a conventional X-ray table, as the technology moves around the patient to achieve the full image.

Benefits of this technology include:
—Lower doses of radiation for the patient and technologist.

— Increased comfort for the patient as the unit moves around the patient, not vice versa.

— Up to 40 percent faster, meaning less wait time for the patient.

— More efficient images can be sent and seen by patients’ doctors simultaneuosly.

UK has once again jumped to the forefront of technology and is now using the knowledge and expertise of its health care professionals to conduct the revolutionary training program.

“Direct Digital Radiography is the future of radiology, and the University of Kentucky was the first in the region to switch over from conventional X-ray imaging,” Abercrombie said.

“Better training means better operators, which translates to better patient care,” said Tammy Fike, a registered technologist from South Bend, Ind.

This first training workshop included registered technologists from the University of New Mexico and Indiana.

— Matthew Cantor