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A Computed Radiography (CR) system is a digital replacement for traditional X-ray film, used by radiographers and medical imaging technicians to capture patient X-ray images. It uses a phosphor imaging plate (IP) inside a cassette, which, after exposure to X-rays, is scanned by a CR reader (or digitizer). The reader converts the stored energy on the plate into a high-resolution digital image that can be viewed on a computer, stored electronically, and shared across networks. For a Nigerian hospital or diagnostic centre, this means eliminating the recurring costs and logistical challenges of X-ray film and chemicals, speeding up diagnosis, and enabling teleradiology consultations with specialists anywhere in the world.
Entry-level refurbished CR systems in Nigeria start from NGN 4-7 million, mid-range new systems cost between NGN 9-15 million, and high-throughput, advanced systems for major hospitals can range from NGN 16-30 million or more. The final price is driven by the digitizer's processing speed (plates per hour), the number and size of imaging plates included, the quality of the acquisition workstation and software, and the brand's reputation. Additional costs that significantly impact the final quote include foreign exchange (FX) rates at the time of purchase, international freight and insurance, customs clearance duties, local installation, user training, and the length of the warranty. Always demand a line-item quote that separates the equipment cost from shipping, installation, and training to understand the full financial commitment.
For a detailed, tailored quote that accounts for your facility's specific needs, contact Franance.
The cheapest CR systems in Nigeria are typically older, refurbished desktop models from brands like Kodak, Agfa, or Konica Minolta, starting from NGN 3.5-6 million. These systems offer basic functionality suitable for low-volume clinics but come with significant trade-offs. You are likely getting a system with minimum specifications, such as a slower reader (15-30 plates per hour), a limited number of used imaging plates which may have artifacts, and an older acquisition workstation running outdated software. The warranty is often limited to 3-6 months and may not cover the imaging plates. Be aware of hidden costs; the lowest unit price often excludes critical items like a suitable UPS, installation, calibration, and comprehensive training, which can add another NGN 500,000 to NGN 1.5 million to the total cost.
Contact Franance to evaluate if a low-cost option truly meets your clinical and financial requirements.
An affordable CR system in Nigeria is a best-value bundle that costs between NGN 10-18 million for a new, reliable tabletop unit. This price typically includes the CR reader (e.g., a Carestream Vita Flex or Fuji FCR PRIMA T2), a set of new cassettes and imaging plates in various sizes, a new acquisition workstation with modern software, a medical-grade monitor, a 3-5kVA pure sine wave online UPS, full installation and calibration, and multi-day application training for your staff. While the initial investment is higher than the "cheapest" option, this bundled approach significantly reduces the 12-month operational cost. It prevents unexpected expenses from power damage (saving NGN 1-2 million in potential repairs), reduces downtime by over 80% compared to older refurbished units, and ensures your team can use the system effectively from day one, improving patient throughput and revenue generation.
Contact Franance to configure an affordable, all-inclusive CR system bundle for your facility.
A new CR system in Nigeria typically costs between NGN 9-25 million, while a professionally refurbished unit ranges from NGN 4-10 million. The primary difference is not just the price but the total value and risk over the system's lifespan. New systems come with a full 12-24 month manufacturer's warranty, the latest software with security updates, guaranteed access to spare parts, and pristine imaging plates, ensuring maximum uptime and image quality. Refurbished systems offer a lower entry cost but often come with a shorter warranty (3-6 months), older software that may not be compatible with modern networks, and used imaging plates that could introduce artifacts into your images. Lead times for new systems can be 8-12 weeks, whereas refurbished units are often available locally within 1-3 weeks.
| Feature | New CR System | Refurbished CR System |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | NGN 9 - 25 Million | NGN 4 - 10 Million |
| Warranty | 12-24 months comprehensive | 3-6 months limited |
| Software | Latest version, supported | Older version, may be unsupported |
| Imaging Plates | Brand new, artifact-free | Used, potential for wear/artifacts |
| Uptime | High (98%+) | Variable, higher risk of downtime |
| Lead Time | 8-12 weeks (if not in stock) | 1-3 weeks (if available locally) |
| Lifecycle | 7-10 years | 3-5 years |
Contact Franance to analyze the long-term financial impact of choosing new versus refurbished for your specific patient volume.
Contact Franance today for a comprehensive, no-obligation quote on a CR system tailored to your facility's needs and budget.
You can buy CR systems from specialized medical equipment suppliers primarily located in major commercial hubs like Lagos (specifically the Ikeja and Lagos Island markets), Abuja, and Port Harcourt. However, it is critical to verify any supplier beyond their physical storefront. A credible supplier must be a registered entity with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), have certified biomedical engineers on staff who are trained by the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), and be able to provide references from other Nigerian hospitals they have supplied. Franance simplifies this by maintaining a network of pre-vetted suppliers. Our verification workflow includes checking their CAC registration, confirming OEM distributorship or partnership, inspecting their engineering workshop, and verifying their track record of successful installations and after-sales support across Nigeria.
Let Franance connect you with verified, reliable CR system suppliers in Nigeria.
Franance is a verified supplier and procurement partner for CR systems in Nigeria, offering end-to-end service coverage from consultation to long-term maintenance. We provide access to a range of new and certified refurbished systems from leading global brands, ensuring every unit we supply meets stringent quality and regulatory standards. Our service extends beyond sales to include turnkey project management, covering logistics, installation by certified engineers, and comprehensive training for your clinical team, with support available nationwide.
The best CR systems in Nigeria are new models from globally recognized brands like Carestream, Agfa, and Fuji, known for their reliability, image quality, and available local support, with prices ranging from NGN 12 million to over NGN 30 million. The "best" system for you depends entirely on your facility's needs. An entry-tier system is perfect for a small clinic, a mid-tier system suits a general hospital, and an advanced-tier system is necessary for a high-volume teaching hospital.
Entry-Tier (Small Clinics, Low Volume): A tabletop model like the Carestream Vita Flex or Fuji FCR PRIMA T2. These are compact, reliable, and offer excellent image quality for general radiography. Key spec: Throughput of 30-60 plates per hour.
Mid-Tier (General Hospitals, Diagnostic Centres): A robust, floor-standing model like the Agfa CR 30-X or Carestream DIRECTVIEW Classic. These offer higher throughput and can handle a more demanding workload. Key spec: Throughput of 60-80 plates per hour and multiple cassette size handling.
Advanced-Tier (Teaching Hospitals, Specialist Centres): A high-throughput, multi-plate reader like the Agfa DX-M or Carestream DIRECTVIEW Max. These systems can handle mammography-quality imaging and have features like drop-and-go cassette loading to maximize workflow efficiency. Key spec: Throughput of over 100 plates per hour and specialized image processing software.
How to match tier to workload:
A comparison of CR system models in Nigeria reveals a trade-off between speed, footprint, features, and cost. Tabletop models like the Fuji PRIMA T2 are compact and affordable, ideal for clinics with limited space. Mid-range floor-standing units like the Agfa CR 30-X offer a significant jump in patient throughput for busier facilities. High-end systems like the Agfa DX-M provide the highest speed and specialized imaging capabilities, such as mammography, required by tertiary institutions.
| Tier | Best for | Example Specs | Lead-time | Maintenance | Power Needs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | Private Clinics, Small Hospitals | 30-60 plates/hr, Desktop, 1-2 cassette slots | 2-4 weeks (local stock) | Annual PM | 1.5-2kVA UPS |
| Mid | General Hospitals, Diagnostic Centres | 60-80 plates/hr, Floor-standing, multiple cassette sizes | 6-10 weeks | Bi-annual PM | 3kVA UPS |
| Advanced | Teaching Hospitals, High-Volume Centres | >100 plates/hr, Mammography capable, drop-and-go loading | 8-12 weeks | Quarterly PM, SLA | 5kVA UPS |
The best CR system brands in Nigeria are Carestream (formerly Kodak), Agfa, and Fujifilm. These brands are highly recommended because they have a long-standing global reputation for producing durable and reliable medical imaging equipment. Crucially, they have an established presence in Nigeria through authorized distributors, which guarantees better access to certified technical support, genuine spare parts, and ongoing training. For example, Carestream's Vita Flex and Classic CR systems are widely used and known for their robust build, while Agfa's CR 30-X and DX-M models are praised for their excellent image processing software (MUSICA). Fujifilm's FCR series is renowned for its high-quality imaging plates and consistent performance.
A price list for CR systems in Nigeria is based on ranges, as final costs depend on configuration, logistics, and FX rates.
When you receive a range-based quote, it's crucial to understand what's included. A quote for "NGN 12-14 million" might vary based on the number of cassettes included, the specifications of the workstation, or whether a UPS is part of the package. For example, a facility in Lagos might get a final price at the lower end of the range due to lower logistics costs, while a facility in Maiduguri might be at the higher end. Always ask for a detailed breakdown to see how the final price is calculated, especially noting the assumed USD/NGN exchange rate, as this is the single biggest variable.
The 5-6 most decisive specifications for a CR system directly impact your clinical workflow, diagnostic quality, and long-term costs.
The installation and calibration process for a CR system in Nigeria typically takes 2-3 days and costs between NGN 250,000 and NGN 700,000, often included in a turnkey project price. The process begins with a site readiness assessment to ensure the room has stable power, adequate space, and network connectivity. On the installation day, engineers will unbox, position the equipment, connect the CR reader to the workstation, and install the software. The most critical step is calibration, where the engineer uses specialized tools to ensure the image output is accurate and consistent with radiation dose. This is followed by applications training for your radiographers.
Contact Franance for a complete turnkey installation service, where we manage everything from site preparation and power audits to final calibration and user training.
Delivery timelines for a new CR system to Nigeria are typically 8-12 weeks from payment confirmation, covering factory production, sea/air freight, and customs clearance. The cost of logistics can add 15-25% to the equipment price. The process involves securing a Form M and SONCAP certificate for importation, managing international shipping, and navigating customs and port authorities in Lagos (Apapa/Tincan) or Port Harcourt. Once cleared, secure inland logistics are required to transport the sensitive equipment to your facility, which must be handled by professionals experienced with medical devices to prevent damage. Full insurance coverage from the factory to your hospital is non-negotiable.
A standard warranty for a new CR system in Nigeria is 12 months, covering parts and labour, while refurbished units typically get 3-6 months. Service options post-warranty include per-call-out fees (NGN 50,000 - 150,000 per visit plus parts) or an annual Service Level Agreement (SLA) which can cost 8-15% of the equipment's original price. A good SLA from a reputable vendor like Franance guarantees a specific response time (e.g., 24-48 hours), includes one or two preventive maintenance visits per year, and may offer remote diagnostic support to resolve software issues quickly. It is crucial to clarify if the warranty is from the local vendor or the OEM, as an OEM-backed warranty provides a higher level of assurance.
Refurbished CR systems in Nigeria are available for NGN 4-10 million and offer a viable, cost-effective option for facilities with limited budgets. These are typically systems from top brands like Agfa, Carestream, and Fuji that have been professionally restored. A high-quality refurbishment (Grade A) means the unit was cosmetically and functionally restored by certified technicians, with key wearing parts like rollers and belts replaced, and software updated. It is critical to verify the refurbishment process. Always demand an engineering report, check the age of the included imaging plates, and ensure you receive at least a 6-month warranty.
To verify an original CR system in Nigeria, you must check the serial number with the manufacturer and buy only from an authorized distributor. Fake or grey-market systems are a significant risk. Red flags include a price that is "too good to be true," the absence of official documentation, and a supplier who is not listed on the OEM's official website as a partner. To verify, locate the serial number on the CR reader's data plate and email it to the customer service department of the manufacturer (e.g., Agfa, Carestream). They can confirm the unit's authenticity, manufacturing date, and original country of sale. Franance only sources equipment directly from OEMs or their certified partners, eliminating this risk entirely.
The essential accessories and consumables for a CR system are imaging plates (IPs) and cassettes, which can cost NGN 200,000 - 500,000 per cassette/IP set depending on size and brand. Other vital accessories include a dedicated acquisition workstation (PC), a medical-grade monitor for quality control, and an appropriate UPS. It is most cost-effective to bundle these items with the main unit purchase. Buying them separately later can be more expensive and may lead to compatibility issues. Ensure your initial purchase includes a full range of cassette sizes (e.g., 35x43cm, 24x30cm) to match your clinical needs.
A CR system in Nigeria requires a stable 220-240V / 50Hz power supply and must be protected by a 3-5kVA pure sine wave online Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). The erratic power grid in Nigeria, with frequent fluctuations and outages, can instantly damage the sensitive electronics and laser components of a CR reader, leading to costly repairs of NGN 1-3 million. The UPS provides a clean, stable power source and allows for a safe shutdown during an outage. Proper electrical earthing (grounding) is also a mandatory safety and operational requirement to protect the equipment and personnel.
To operate a CR system compliantly in Nigeria, your facility must be licensed by the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA), and the equipment must meet the standards of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON). For importation, the CR system requires a SONCAP certificate. Once installed, the NNRA requires that the facility be registered, the operators be licensed, and the room meet radiation safety standards. All calibration and quality assurance records must be maintained for inspection. While NAFDAC is not directly involved with the CR reader, any associated medical consumables may require their approval.
Financing and leasing options for CR systems in Nigeria include bank loans, asset financing from specialized lenders, and tailored payment plans from suppliers like Franance. Bank loans typically require significant collateral, a strong financial history, and can take 2-4 months for approval, with interest rates between 20-30%. Leasing is a faster alternative where you pay a monthly fee to use the equipment for a set period (e.g., 3-5 years), with lower upfront costs. Franance offers flexible financing solutions designed for healthcare providers, featuring faster approval times (2-4 weeks) and payment structures aligned with your revenue cycle. NGO funding often comes from international grants, which have specific procurement and reporting requirements.
The total cost of ownership (TCO) for a CR system in Nigeria over five years is typically 1.5 to 2 times the initial purchase price. For a system purchased at NGN 12 million, the 5-year TCO could be NGN 18-24 million. This includes the initial capital outlay plus operational costs like annual service contracts (NGN 800k-1.5M/year), electricity (especially diesel for generators), potential replacement of imaging plates (NGN 300k-500k each), software upgrades, and personnel training. A cheaper, refurbished unit might have a lower initial cost but a much higher TCO due to more frequent downtime, expensive ad-hoc repairs, and the need for earlier replacement.
Tertiary and teaching hospitals in Nigeria require high-throughput, robust CR systems like the Agfa DX-M or Carestream DIRECTVIEW Max. These floor-standing, multi-cassette systems are designed for extreme workloads (100+ patients/day), offering features like drop-and-go automation to speed up workflow. They must have specialized imaging capabilities, such as mammography-grade resolution (20 pixels/mm) and advanced image processing software to support complex diagnoses and academic research. A comprehensive service level agreement with 24-hour support is essential.
Private clinics and diagnostic centres are best served by reliable and compact tabletop CR systems like the Fuji FCR PRIMA T2 or the Carestream Vita Flex. These models offer an excellent balance of image quality, affordability (NGN 10-18 million bundled), and a small footprint suitable for limited space. Their throughput of 30-60 plates per hour is ideal for a typical private practice workload. The key is to invest in a new unit with a full warranty and a bundled UPS to ensure reliability and protect the investment, as downtime directly translates to lost revenue.
NGOs and mobile health programs need durable, portable, and power-efficient CR systems. The Carestream Vita Flex is an excellent choice due to its lightweight and robust design, making it resilient to the rigours of transport over rough Nigerian roads. It has a relatively low power consumption, making it easier to run on generators or inverter systems in off-grid locations. The system's simplicity and reliable performance are critical for field operations where technical support is not immediately available.
For emergency, theatre, and ICU settings, the ideal CR system is a compact, mobile-ready unit that can be placed on a cart alongside a mobile X-ray machine. A small tabletop reader like the Konica Minolta ImagePilot Aero or a similar compact model is perfect. Key requirements are a fast boot-up time and rapid image acquisition to support urgent clinical decisions. The system should be easy to clean and have a simple, intuitive user interface for quick use by various staff members in high-pressure environments.
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A new Computed Radiography (CR) system in Nigeria costs between NGN 15 million and NGN 35 million. For instance, a new Agfa CR 15-X digitizer with a workstation and cassettes typically falls in the NGN 18-22 million range. Refurbished units, like a Carestream Vita Flex, can be sourced for NGN 7-12 million, offering a more affordable entry point for smaller clinics in cities like Ibadan or Kano.
A professionally refurbished CR system in Nigeria ranges from NGN 7 million to NGN 15 million. A refurbished Kodak DirectView Classic CR system, fully calibrated and with a 6-month warranty, can cost around NGN 9 million. Ensure the supplier provides proof of component replacement and a recent calibration certificate to guarantee performance and avoid unexpected downtime.
You can buy CR systems from authorized medical equipment distributors in Lagos, such as JNC International or DCL Laboratory Products. It is crucial to verify their authorization for brands like Agfa or Fuji to ensure you receive genuine products, valid warranties, and post-sales support. Always request a demonstration of a model like the Fuji FCR PRIMA T2 before purchase.
Most CR systems require a stable 220-240V power supply protected by a dedicated uninterruptible power supply (UPS). A system like the Carestream Vita Flex CR needs a 3kVA online UPS to protect it from power fluctuations common in Nigeria. This prevents damage to sensitive electronics and ensures consistent image quality, avoiding costly repairs and downtime.
You can finance a CR system through asset financing from commercial banks or specialized healthcare lenders like Franance. They can structure a lease-to-own plan over 24-36 months for a system like the Agfa CR 30-X. This allows you to acquire the NGN 25-30 million system with an initial deposit of around 20-30%, making advanced diagnostics accessible without a large upfront capital outlay.
A new CR system, like an Agfa CR 15-X, comes with a full manufacturer's warranty (typically 1-2 years) and the latest software. A refurbished Kodak DirectView system is a used unit that has been professionally restored, calibrated, and tested, usually offering a shorter warranty (3-6 months) at about 40-60% of the cost of a new one. Refurbished is ideal for budget-conscious facilities, while new offers reliability and the latest features.
The best CR system brands for Nigerian hospitals are those with strong local support, like Agfa, Carestream (formerly Kodak), and Fuji. These brands have established distributors in Lagos and Abuja for spare parts and service. An Agfa CR 30-X is a robust workhorse for high-volume centres, while a Fuji FCR PRIMA T2 is a compact, reliable option for smaller clinics and private practices.
A standard CR system installation takes 1 to 2 days. This includes physical setup of the digitizer, like a Carestream Vita Flex, connecting it to the workstation, network configuration, and user training. Pre-installation checks for stable power and appropriate space can prevent delays. A facility in Port Harcourt recently completed its Agfa CR 15-X installation and training in under 48 hours.
The Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) requires your facility to have a registered and licensed X-ray source before you can operate a CR system. You must provide the NNRA with the specifications of your X-ray machine, not the CR digitizer itself. Ensure your radiographers are licensed, and the room meets shielding requirements. The CR system itself does not emit radiation and is not directly licensed by NNRA.
A CR system should undergo professional calibration at least once a year. Daily or weekly quality control checks using a phantom should also be performed by your radiographers to monitor performance. For a system like the Fuji Capsula XL2, an annual preventive maintenance and calibration service by a certified engineer costs around NGN 250,000 - NGN 400,000 and ensures diagnostic accuracy and longevity.
Common problems include image artifacts from dusty imaging plates (IPs), software freezes due to power surges, and mechanical jams in the reader. For a Kodak DirectView system, frequent jams can be caused by using bent or damaged cassettes. Regularly cleaning IPs with an approved solution and using a 3kVA online UPS can prevent over 70% of these common issues.
White spots on CR images are typically caused by dust, dirt, or scratches on the imaging plate (IP). To fix this, carefully remove the IP from its cassette and clean it with a manufacturer-approved cleaning solution and a lint-free cloth. For a Fuji FCR system, if cleaning doesn't resolve the issue, the plate may be permanently scratched and require replacement, which can cost NGN 150,000 - NGN 300,000 depending on size.
Leasing is better if you want to conserve capital and avoid a large upfront payment, while buying is better for long-term cost savings. Leasing a NGN 20 million Agfa CR 15-X might involve monthly payments of NGN 700,000 for 36 months. Buying it outright saves you interest costs. Leasing often includes maintenance, which is a key advantage for facilities in Kano or Enugu with limited access to engineers.
A typical CR system package includes the CR digitizer (e.g., Carestream Vita Flex), a high-resolution monitor and acquisition workstation with software, and at least two imaging plate cassettes of different sizes (e.g., 14x17" and 10x12"). It should also include installation, user training, and a one-year manufacturer's warranty. Always confirm if a dry laser imager for printing films is included or is an optional extra.
Choose a supplier with a proven track record, direct authorization from the manufacturer (e.g., Agfa, Fuji), and in-house biomedical engineers. Ask for references from other hospitals in your city, like Abuja or Port Harcourt. A reliable supplier will offer comprehensive after-sales support, including a service level agreement (SLA) that guarantees a 24-48 hour response time for technical issues.
A CR imaging plate (IP) has a lifespan of approximately 10,000 to 20,000 exposures, or 3-5 years of typical use, before image quality degrades. Proper handling is crucial; dropping a cassette can damage the IP inside. A replacement IP for a system like the Kodak DirectView can cost between NGN 150,000 and NGN 300,000, so training staff on careful handling is a cost-effective measure.
You do not need a lead-lined room for the CR reader itself, as it does not produce radiation. However, the CR reader, like a Fuji FCR PRIMA T2, should be placed in a clean, dust-free, and climate-controlled room (ideally 20-25°C) to protect its sensitive optics and electronics. The connected X-ray machine must remain in a properly shielded room that meets NNRA guidelines.
Yes, virtually all modern CR systems are DICOM-compliant and can be connected to a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS). A system like the Agfa CR 30-X can be configured to automatically send images to a central PACS server. This allows for digital storage, retrieval, and viewing of images across your hospital network, eliminating the need for physical film storage.
A CR system requires daily user maintenance and annual professional servicing. Daily tasks include cleaning the exterior and ensuring the workstation is shut down properly. Annually, a certified engineer should clean the internal optics, lubricate mechanical parts, and perform image quality calibration on your Agfa or Carestream unit. This preventive maintenance costs NGN 250,000 - NGN 400,000 and prevents major breakdowns.
Verify a supplier by requesting their Certificate of Incorporation from the CAC and proof of authorization from the equipment manufacturer (e.g., an official distributor letter from Fuji). Ask for a list of recent installations in Nigerian hospitals and contact those facilities for references. A legitimate supplier will readily provide these documents and welcome a site visit to their office in Lagos or Abuja.
The cheapest option is a used or refurbished desktop CR system, which can cost between NGN 5 million and NGN 8 million. A second-hand Kodak Point-of-Care CR 140 System, for example, offers a basic but functional entry into digital radiography for a small clinic. However, be aware of potential hidden costs like the need for new imaging plates or the lack of warranty and technical support.
A CR system comes with acquisition software installed on the workstation, which controls the digitizer and allows for image processing. For example, Agfa CR systems use MUSICA image processing software, known for its excellent detail and contrast. This software allows radiographers to adjust brightness, contrast, and apply annotations before sending the image to a PACS or printer.
High humidity, especially in coastal cities like Port Harcourt and Lagos, can damage the sensitive electronics and optical components of a CR system. It can also cause imaging plates to stick together or degrade faster. To mitigate this, you must operate the system in an air-conditioned room with a dehumidifier, maintaining a relative humidity level between 40% and 60% as recommended for models like the Carestream Vita Flex.
Operating a CR system requires training for radiographers on using the acquisition workstation software and proper handling of imaging plates. The supplier typically provides 1-2 days of on-site application training upon installation of a new system like the Agfa CR 15-X. This covers patient registration, image acquisition, quality control, and basic troubleshooting to ensure your team can use the system effectively from day one.
Yes, a CR system is the most common way to upgrade an existing analogue X-ray machine to digital. You simply replace your film cassettes with the CR system's imaging plate cassettes, like those for a Fuji FCR. You continue using your existing X-ray generator and tube. This is a cost-effective upgrade path, allowing you to go digital for NGN 15-25 million without replacing your entire X-ray room.
A new CR system in Nigeria typically comes with a 12-month manufacturer's warranty. This covers parts and labour for any defects or malfunctions. For a system like the Agfa CR 30-X, this warranty is serviced by the authorized local distributor. It is critical to confirm that your supplier is certified to provide this warranty support locally to avoid delays in repairs.
Handle CR imaging plates (IPs) only by their edges to avoid fingerprints on the active surface, and never bend them. Clean them monthly or when artifacts appear, using an approved ethanol-based cleaning solution and a lint-free cloth. For a Carestream IP, wipe gently in one direction from the center outwards. Improper cleaning can cause permanent damage, leading to costly replacements.
Ongoing costs include an annual preventive maintenance contract (NGN 250,000 - NGN 400,000), electricity for the system and required air conditioning, and eventual replacement of imaging plates every 3-5 years (NGN 150,000 - NGN 300,000 per plate). While you save on film and chemical costs, budgeting for these operational expenses is essential for uninterrupted service.
CR systems are significantly more affordable upfront than Direct Radiography (DR) systems. A complete new CR system like the Agfa CR 15-X costs around NGN 20 million, whereas a new DR system often starts from NGN 40-50 million. While DR offers faster workflow, CR provides an excellent, budget-friendly pathway for Nigerian clinics to transition from analogue film to digital imaging.
Yes, you or your supplier need to obtain NAFDAC authorization to import a CR system into Nigeria. The system must be registered as a medical device. Reputable suppliers like JNC International handle the entire NAFDAC and SON (Standards Organisation of Nigeria) importation and clearance process for the equipment they sell, such as a Carestream or Agfa system, ensuring it is fully compliant with Nigerian regulations upon arrival.