Mobile and Fixed C-Arm Fluoroscopy
Installation teams in Lagos, Abuja, PH & Kano
Certified biomedical engineers & calibration
Pricing, lead-times & compliance in 24 hours
A C-Arm is a mobile medical imaging device that provides real-time X-ray imaging, known as fluoroscopy, during surgical, orthopedic, and emergency care procedures. It is primarily used by surgeons, orthopedic specialists, and interventional radiologists to visualize patient anatomy and guide instruments with precision. The distinctive C-shaped arm allows the imaging system to move flexibly around the patient on the operating table, delivering live, dynamic images to monitors. This capability dramatically improves procedural accuracy, reduces surgical time, and enhances patient safety in procedures ranging from fracture setting to stent placement.
C-Arm Fluoroscopy Systems in Nigeria range from NGN 25 million for basic refurbished units to over NGN 180 million for new, high-end systems with advanced features like 3D imaging and vascular packages. The final price is driven by numerous factors, including the detector technology (modern Flat Panel Detector vs. older Image Intensifier), the generator's power output in kW, and the brand's reputation, with Siemens, GE, and Philips commanding premium prices. Additional costs that must be factored into your budget include accessories like laser aimers, DICOM printers, installation, comprehensive training for your staff, warranty duration, and the significant impact of foreign exchange rates, freight, and customs clearance fees. When requesting a quote, you must insist on a detailed, line-item breakdown that specifies the cost of the C-Arm, monitor cart, mandatory UPS, lead aprons, installation, calibration, training, and payment terms to avoid unexpected expenses.
Contact Franance for a detailed, all-inclusive quote tailored to your facility's specific clinical and operational needs.
The cheapest functional C-Arm Fluoroscopy Systems in Nigeria are older, refurbished models equipped with image intensifiers, with prices starting from NGN 25 million to NGN 45 million. These systems provide basic 2D imaging suitable for simple orthopedic procedures like fracture reductions. However, they typically come with significant limitations, including shorter warranties (often just 3-6 months), higher radiation doses compared to modern systems, and potential hidden costs. The initial low price often excludes critical items like installation, calibration, freight from Lagos to your site (which can add NGN 500,000 - NGN 2 million), and the mandatory UPS needed to protect the unit from Nigeria's erratic power supply.
Contact Franance to evaluate if a low-cost option truly meets your clinical standards and long-term financial goals.
An affordable C-Arm system in Nigeria is a value-focused bundle, typically a newer refurbished model with a flat-panel detector (FPD), priced between NGN 55 million and NGN 90 million. This price should include not just the machine, but also professional installation, on-site applications training, a 3kVA double-conversion UPS, and a comprehensive 12-month warranty covering both parts and labour. This bundled approach provides the best value by ensuring predictable costs and minimizing downtime. A cheap NGN 30 million unit without a proper service and power plan can easily incur an additional NGN 5-10 million in repair and downtime costs within the first year, completely negating the initial savings.
Ask Franance about our all-inclusive C-Arm bundles designed for predictable performance and long-term value.
New C-Arm systems in Nigeria typically range from NGN 90 million to over NGN 180 million, whereas high-quality refurbished units cost between NGN 40 million and NGN 95 million, offering a significant 40-60% cost saving. New systems, such as a Siemens Cios Select, provide the latest low-dose imaging software, a full manufacturer's warranty of 2-3 years, and a longer operational lifespan, but come with extended lead times of 4-6 months for delivery. In contrast, a refurbished system like a Philips Pulsera offers proven reliability, is available much faster (typically 4-8 weeks), but has a shorter warranty period (6-12 months) and may not have the most recent software features.
| Feature | New C-Arm | Refurbished C-Arm |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | NGN 90M - 180M+ | NGN 40M - 95M |
| Warranty | 24-36 months | 6-12 months |
| Lead Time | 16-24 weeks | 4-8 weeks |
| Technology | Latest FPD, low-dose software | Proven FPD or Image Intensifier |
| Expected Lifespan | 10-12 years | 5-7 years |
Let Franance help you analyze the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) of new versus refurbished options to find the best fit for your budget and clinical needs.
Contact Franance today for a comprehensive, no-obligation quote on new or refurbished C-Arm Fluoroscopy Systems, complete with installation, training, and warranty options for your Nigerian facility.
Reputable C-Arm suppliers are primarily based in Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, but a physical office is not enough; you must rigorously verify their technical and corporate credentials. The most reliable sources are direct OEM representatives (e.g., the Nigerian offices of GE Healthcare, Siemens Healthineers) or certified third-party vendors who can prove their partnership status and have a documented history of successful installations in Nigeria. Before committing, you must verify a supplier's Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration, confirm they have in-house, factory-trained biomedical engineers (ask to see training certificates), and request at least three references from Nigerian hospitals that are currently using C-Arms they installed and are servicing. Franance pre-vets all partner suppliers by verifying their engineering capacity, local spare parts inventory, and regulatory compliance history with bodies like the NNRA, ensuring you only engage with qualified and reliable vendors.
Franance connects you with a network of pre-verified C-Arm suppliers, saving you valuable time and mitigating procurement risks.
Franance is a specialized procurement and service partner that provides your facility with access to a rigorously vetted network of C-Arm suppliers. We offer complete turnkey solutions that cover every stage of the acquisition process, from sourcing and financing to installation and after-sales support, available across all 36 states of Nigeria.
The "best" C-Arm is the one that matches your facility's clinical needs and budget. For a high-caseload teaching hospital, the best choice is a new, top-tier system like a Siemens Healthineers Cios Alpha or a GE OEC Elite CFD, which can cost over NGN 150 million but offers advanced capabilities like 3D imaging. For a private orthopedic clinic, the best value is often a premium refurbished system like the GE OEC 9900 Elite, priced between NGN 65-85 million, which delivers excellent image quality and reliability.
Advanced Tier (Teaching Hospitals, Tertiary Centers): These are new systems with large Flat Panel Detectors (FPD), high-power generators (15-25 kW), and specialized software for vascular, cardiac, and 3D imaging. Recommended models include the Siemens Cios Alpha and GE OEC Elite CFD.
Mid-Range Tier (Private Hospitals, Surgical Centers): This category includes new entry-level FPD systems or premium refurbished FPD models. They offer superb 2D imaging for a wide range of surgeries. Recommended models include the Philips Zenition 50 or a refurbished GE OEC 9900 Elite.
Entry-Level Tier (Small Clinics, NGOs, General Hospitals): This tier consists of reliable refurbished systems, often with Image Intensifiers (II) or basic FPDs. They are workhorses for general orthopedics and basic surgical procedures. Recommended models include a refurbished Philips Pulsera or Ziehm Solo.
How to match tier to workload:
Comparing C-Arm models effectively means looking beyond the price tag to evaluate the detector type (Flat Panel Detector vs. Image Intensifier), generator power (kW), and available software packages. These specifications directly determine the system's image quality, radiation safety profile, and the range of clinical procedures your facility can perform. An FPD system provides clearer images at a lower dose than an II system, while a higher kW generator is crucial for imaging larger patients.
| Tier | Best for | Key Specs | Lead-time | Maintenance | Power Needs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced (e.g., Siemens Cios Alpha) | Teaching Hospitals, Vascular Surgery | 30x30cm FPD, 25kW generator, 3D imaging | 4-6 months | OEM contract essential | 3-Phase, dedicated 30A line, UPS |
| Mid-Range (e.g., GE OEC 9900 Elite - Refurb) | Private Hospitals, Orthopedics | 21x21cm FPD, 15kW generator, DICOM | 6-10 weeks | 3rd party/vendor SLA | Single-Phase, 15A line, 5kVA UPS |
| Entry-Level (e.g., Philips Pulsera - Refurb) | Small Clinics, Basic Surgery | 9”/12” Image Intensifier, 7.5kW generator | 4-8 weeks | Ad-hoc service calls | Single-Phase, 15A line, 3kVA UPS |
GE Healthcare, Siemens Healthineers, and Philips are the best and most dependable C-Arm brands for the Nigerian market. Their leadership is based on their established local service networks, better availability of genuine spare parts within the country, and the robust engineering of their systems, which perform reliably even in challenging power environments. GE's OEC series (like the OEC 9900 and OEC Elite) is the industry workhorse, celebrated for its durability and exceptional image quality in orthopedics. Siemens' Cios family leads in technological innovation, offering low-dose solutions and advanced features ideal for specialized applications. Philips, with its Zenition and Pulsera systems, is highly regarded for user-friendly interfaces and efficient clinical workflows.
There is no fixed price list for C-Arms in Nigeria as prices are quote-based and highly sensitive to specifications and exchange rates. However, you can use the following tiered ranges for effective budgeting:
When you receive a quote, it's crucial to understand what the price includes. A quote for "NGN 70 million" might be for the machine alone (ex-Lagos), or it could be an all-inclusive price covering the system, a UPS, NNRA registration fees, training, and delivery to your facility in a remote state. The biggest variable affecting the final price is the NGN/USD/EUR exchange rate; a small fluctuation can change the final cost by millions of Naira. Always demand quotes with a specified validity period, typically 14-30 days, to protect your budget.
The five most decisive specifications that dictate a C-Arm's clinical capability, performance, and price are the detector type, generator power, X-ray tube heat capacity, installed software packages, and its DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) capabilities. A mismatch in any of these areas can result in purchasing a machine that is inadequate for your needs or overpaying for features you will never use.
A standard C-Arm installation in Nigeria typically takes 2-3 days on-site and costs between NGN 500,000 and NGN 2,500,000, a fee that varies based on your facility's location and the complexity of the system. This fee should be all-inclusive, covering a pre-installation site inspection, the physical setup of the equipment, connection to a conditioned power supply, full calibration to OEM standards, and initial radiation safety checks. The turnkey process begins weeks before delivery with a site readiness assessment to verify power quality, room dimensions, and floor strength. After the unit is delivered and assembled, certified engineers use specialized measurement tools (phantoms) to calibrate the system for optimal image quality and dose accuracy. This is immediately followed by applications training for your clinical team and the official handover of all necessary documentation.
Franance manages the entire turnkey installation process for your C-Arm, from pre-installation site assessment and logistics to final calibration and user training, ensuring your system is clinically operational on schedule and to specification.
Delivery of a C-Arm system from the port of entry (Apapa or MMIA) to your hospital in Nigeria typically takes 1-3 weeks and can cost between NGN 750,000 and NGN 4,000,000, depending on the final destination and road conditions. This cost covers customs clearance, specialized handling, secure inland transportation, and full insurance coverage. The total lead time from placing an order to arrival in Nigeria is approximately 4-8 weeks for refurbished systems and can be as long as 16-24 weeks for new systems built to order. The logistics process involves securing the necessary import permits (Form M and PAAR), managing brokerage at the port, and chartering specialized air-ride suspension trucks to protect the C-Arm's sensitive detectors and electronics from damage during transit on Nigerian roads.
The standard warranty for a new C-Arm in Nigeria is 12-24 months, while quality refurbished units typically come with a 6-12 month warranty. After the warranty expires, a comprehensive service level agreement (SLA) is essential for maintaining uptime and will cost between 5-10% of the equipment's original value per year (approximately NGN 3 million to NGN 10 million). It is crucial to distinguish between an OEM-backed warranty and a vendor-only warranty, as the former guarantees access to manufacturer resources. A strong SLA must clearly define a 48-hour maximum response time for an engineer to be on-site, include at least two preventive maintenance visits per year, and cover all parts and labour without exception. Modern systems with remote diagnostic capabilities can also significantly accelerate troubleshooting and reduce downtime.
High-quality refurbished C-Arms from leading brands like GE, Philips, and Siemens are an excellent and widely available option in Nigeria. Prices range from NGN 25 million for older models with Image Intensifiers to NGN 95 million for more recent systems equipped with Flat Panel Detectors. The term "refurbished" can vary in meaning, from a simple cosmetic "paint and clean" to a full OEM-standard remanufacturing process where critical components like the X-ray tube, detector, and memory boards are replaced with new ones. You must demand a detailed report outlining the exact refurbishment work performed, including a list of replaced parts and the manufacturing dates of those key components.
You can verify a C-Arm's authenticity by cross-referencing its serial number directly with the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and by purchasing exclusively from the OEM's authorized distributors in Nigeria. The most significant red flags for fake or grey-market systems are prices that are drastically below market value, missing or incomplete documentation, and serial numbers on the gantry, monitor cart, and workstation that do not match. Counterfeit or improperly sourced systems often feature tampered data plates, have been repaired with non-OEM parts, and may run on pirated or outdated software, posing a significant risk to both patients and operators.
Essential accessories that are critical for operating a C-Arm safely and effectively include a dedicated UPS (costing NGN 1 million - 3 million), radiation protection apparel (lead aprons and thyroid shields, costing NGN 150,000 - 400,000 per set), and a compatible radiolucent operating table. These items are almost always sold separately and are not included in the base price of the C-Arm, so they must be budgeted for explicitly. It is far more cost-effective and efficient to bundle these accessories with the main C-Arm purchase. This strategy not only ensures perfect compatibility (e.g., a carbon-fibre table that doesn't create artifacts on the image) but also provides leverage to negotiate a package discount from the supplier.
Most C-Arm systems require a stable, single-phase 220-240V, 15A dedicated power line. Given the unreliable and fluctuating nature of the Nigerian power grid, a 3-5kVA double-conversion online UPS is not a recommendation—it is a mandatory requirement for protecting the C-Arm's highly sensitive and expensive electronics from power surges, sags, and sudden outages. The installation site must be prepared with a clean, dedicated power source that has proper electrical earthing (grounding) with a measured resistance of less than 5 Ohms. A high-quality servo-motor voltage stabilizer can be installed before the UPS for an added layer of protection. Your facility's backup generator must also be correctly sized to handle the C-Arm's peak power draw without causing a significant voltage drop that could affect other critical equipment.
To legally import and operate a C-Arm Fluoroscopy System in Nigeria, your facility must register the device with the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) and ensure the equipment meets the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) conformity requirements through its SONCAP program for new imports. Your supplier has a responsibility to provide the necessary documentation and guide you through the NNRA application process. The NNRA is the primary government body that regulates the use of all ionizing radiation equipment. They will need to approve your facility's shielding, inspect the final installation, and issue licenses for both the facility and the clinical operators before you can begin using the C-Arm on patients. All documentation, including calibration records and quality assurance (QA) procedures, must be kept on file and be readily available for periodic NNRA inspections.
Financing options for acquiring a C-Arm in Nigeria include traditional equipment loans from commercial banks like Sterling Bank or Access Bank, leasing agreements from specialized firms like the Bank of Industry (BOI) or private lessors, and direct financing plans offered by procurement partners like Franance. Bank loans typically require a 20-30% down payment and substantial collateral, with interest rates currently ranging from 20-28% and an approval process that can take 4-8 weeks. Equipment leasing offers a faster path to acquisition (2-4 weeks approval) with less stringent collateral requirements, but the effective interest rate can be higher. Funding for NGOs often comes from international grants, which involves a separate, rigorous proposal and reporting process.
The 5-year Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for a C-Arm in Nigeria is typically 1.5 to 2 times its initial purchase price. For a system acquired at NGN 70 million, you should budget for a TCO of over NGN 120 million once you include the costs of multi-year service contracts, power infrastructure (UPS and diesel), regulatory fees, and ongoing staff training. The initial purchase price is only one part of the total investment. A failure to budget for these recurring operational costs is a primary reason why high-tech medical equipment fails prematurely in many facilities.
Example 5-Year TCO Breakdown:
TCO levers to manage:
A tertiary or teaching hospital in Nigeria requires a high-performance new C-Arm like the Siemens Cios Alpha or GE OEC Elite CFD, with a budget of NGN 150 million and above. The essential specifications for this environment are a large 30x30cm Flat Panel Detector to accommodate a wide variety of procedures (from orthopedics to vascular), a powerful 25kW generator to ensure excellent image quality on all patient sizes, and advanced software packages for cardiology, neurology, and 3D imaging to support complex clinical cases, postgraduate training, and research.
A private clinic or diagnostic center specializing in orthopedics, urology, or pain management will achieve the best return on investment with a premium refurbished Flat Panel Detector C-Arm, such as the GE OEC 9900 Elite, typically priced between NGN 65-85 million. This system provides outstanding 2D image quality that rivals new machines, proven day-in-day-out reliability, and full DICOM functionality for a seamless digital workflow, all without the high capital expenditure of a brand-new system.
NGOs and mobile surgical outreach programs need a C-Arm that is compact, durable, and simple to operate. A refurbished Ziehm Solo, costing around NGN 45-60 million, is an outstanding choice. Its unique all-in-one design, which integrates the monitor directly onto the C-arm, saves critical space in mobile clinics and simplifies transportation and setup. These systems are specifically engineered to be robust and to withstand the challenges of field use, including transport over rough terrain and operation with less-than-ideal power conditions.
For the high-pressure environments of the emergency room, main operating theatre, and ICU, speed, maneuverability, and ease of use are the most critical factors. A system like the Philips Zenition 50 (NGN 90-120 million) is perfectly suited for this role. It features a highly intuitive, tablet-like user interface that allows for rapid startup and straightforward operation, enabling staff to capture critical images quickly during trauma cases or guide procedures at the bedside in the ICU. Its excellent image quality serves a broad range of applications, from emergency fracture setting to surgical guidance.
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A new C-arm system in Nigeria costs between NGN 35 million and NGN 90 million. For instance, a mid-range system like the GE OEC Elite CFD typically falls in the NGN 50-70 million range, while a high-end Siemens Cios Alpha can exceed NGN 85 million. Refurbished units, such as a Philips Pulsera, offer a more affordable entry point, usually from NGN 15 million to NGN 30 million, depending on age and condition.
A quality refurbished C-arm in Nigeria typically costs between NGN 15 million and NGN 35 million. The price depends on the model, year of manufacture, and level of refurbishment. For example, a professionally refurbished GE OEC 9900 Elite with a new X-ray tube and flat-panel detector might cost around NGN 28 million, offering significant savings over a new unit while providing excellent imaging capabilities for orthopaedic or pain management procedures.
You can buy C-arm systems from authorized medical equipment distributors in Lagos and Abuja, such as JNC International or DCL Laboratory Products. It is critical to verify they are official partners for brands like GE Healthcare or Siemens Healthineers to ensure genuine products and warranty. Ask for their certificate of distributorship before purchasing a system like the Ziehm Vision RFD 3D to guarantee proper installation and after-sales support.
The best C-arm brands in Nigeria with strong local support are GE Healthcare, Siemens Healthineers, and Philips. GE's OEC series, like the OEC Elite, is renowned for its superb image quality in orthopaedics. Siemens' Cios family, such as the Cios Select, offers reliability and ease of use. Philips' Zenition systems are known for their workflow efficiency. Your choice should depend on your specific clinical needs, available budget, and the quality of local technical support.
You can finance a C-arm through medical equipment financing specialists like Franance, or via asset financing from banks like Sterling Bank or Access Bank. Franance can structure a payment plan over 24-48 months for a system like the Philips Zenition 70, allowing you to pay from the revenue it generates. This avoids a large upfront capital outlay, making advanced technology accessible for your facility in Port Harcourt or Kano.
Buying a new C-arm is better if you require the latest technology and a full manufacturer's warranty, but a refurbished unit offers better value for budget-conscious facilities. A new Siemens Cios Flow provides cutting-edge features, but a professionally refurbished GE OEC 9900 from a reputable vendor can deliver 80-90% of the clinical capability for about 40-50% of the cost. Ensure the refurbished system comes with at least a 6-12 month warranty.
A C-arm typically requires a dedicated 220-240V, 15-30 Amp single-phase power line with a high-quality UPS. For example, installing a GE OEC 9900 Elite in a Nigerian hospital often necessitates a 5-10 kVA online UPS to protect against power fluctuations. Your biomedical engineer must confirm the specific amperage and socket type listed in the system's pre-installation manual to avoid damaging sensitive electronics like the X-ray generator.
The physical installation and calibration of a C-arm system typically takes 2 to 3 days. This includes uncrating, assembly, electrical connections, and performing quality assurance tests. For a system like the Philips Zenition 50, the supplier's engineer will then conduct 2-3 days of application training for your radiographers and surgeons. The entire process, from delivery to clinical use, usually takes about one week, assuming the room is prepared in advance.
The Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) requires you to obtain an import permit before the C-arm arrives, followed by registration upon installation. You must submit the system's specifications, like the kVp and mA range of a Siemens Cios Select, and a radiation safety plan. An NNRA inspection of your facility is mandatory to verify shielding and operational safety before a license to operate is issued, a process that can take 60-90 days.
A C-arm requires annual preventive maintenance and regular quality checks. This includes cleaning the cooling fans, checking cable integrity, calibrating the imaging chain, and performing radiation output tests. For a GE OEC Brivo, the service engineer will run diagnostics to check the X-ray tube's performance and ensure the dose area product (DAP) meter is accurate. A comprehensive service contract is recommended for facilities in cities like Kano to ensure prompt repairs.
First, check if the C-arm or the patient moved during exposure, as motion is the most common cause of blurry images. Next, ensure the image intensifier or flat-panel detector is as close to the patient as possible to reduce scatter. On a system like the Siemens Artis Zee, you can also try using the 'Digital Zoom' or 'Edge Enhancement' features. If the problem persists, it may indicate a failing X-ray tube or detector, requiring a service engineer's attention.
A C-arm X-ray tube typically lasts for 5 to 10 years, depending heavily on usage. A tube in a busy orthopaedic theatre in Lagos might last closer to 5 years, while one in a facility with lower patient volume could last over 10 years. Systems like the GE OEC Elite CFD have advanced heat management to prolong tube life. Monitoring tube usage hours and following recommended warm-up procedures are crucial for maximizing its lifespan.
Yes, you can lease a C-arm system in Nigeria, which is an excellent option to conserve capital. Leasing companies and some major distributors offer plans for 36 to 60 months. This allows you to acquire a modern system like a Philips Zenition 10 for a fixed monthly payment that includes service and maintenance. At the end of the lease, you typically have the option to buy the equipment, upgrade, or return it.
A minimum room size of 4 meters by 5 meters (20 square meters) is recommended for comfortable C-arm operation. This provides enough space for the C-arm, an operating table, anaesthesia equipment, and staff movement. For larger systems with 3D imaging capabilities, like the Ziehm Vision RFD 3D, a larger room of 5m x 6m is preferable to accommodate the wider range of motion and additional monitors required for surgical navigation.
Yes, you need lead shielding for a room where a C-arm is regularly used to comply with NNRA regulations. Typically, 1.5mm to 2.0mm lead equivalent shielding is required for the walls, doors, and control room viewing window. The exact thickness depends on the C-arm's power (kVp), workload, and room layout. An NNRA-certified radiation safety advisor must perform the shielding calculation before you begin construction at your facility.
A flat-panel detector (FPD) C-arm provides superior image quality, lower radiation dose, and a larger field of view compared to an older image intensifier (II) system. For example, a modern GE OEC Elite CFD with an FPD produces distortion-free, high-contrast images ideal for vascular procedures. An II-based system, like an older Philips Pulsera, is more affordable but can suffer from geometric distortion and lower dynamic range.
To verify a supplier, demand a letter of authorization from the manufacturer (e.g., Siemens Healthineers, GE Healthcare). Check if they have factory-trained engineers in Nigeria by asking for their training certificates. Ask for a reference list of at least three hospitals in Abuja or Lagos where they have installed a similar model, like the Siemens Cios Connect. A credible supplier will readily provide this information and offer a comprehensive warranty.
A new C-arm purchase should include both applications and technical training. The supplier will provide 2-3 days of on-site applications training for your radiographers and surgeons on how to use the specific features of the system, like the vascular package on a Philips Zenition 70. They should also offer basic technical training for your biomedical engineer on routine checks and first-line troubleshooting, reducing downtime for minor issues.
Common problems include system failure due to unstable power supply, blurry images from a deteriorating X-ray tube, and software glitches. In many Nigerian facilities, damage to the high-voltage cables from being run over by trolleys is a frequent and expensive issue. Using a UPS like an APC Smart-UPS and implementing strict cable management protocols for your GE OEC 9900 can prevent over 50% of these common service calls.
An annual comprehensive service contract for a C-arm in Nigeria typically costs 5% to 10% of the equipment's purchase price. For a NGN 50 million system like a GE OEC Elite, this would be between NGN 2.5 million and NGN 5 million per year. This fee usually covers one or two preventive maintenance visits, all repairs, labour, and replacement parts, excluding the X-ray tube. It provides budget predictability and minimizes downtime.
Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) is a feature that removes bone and soft tissue from an image to provide a clear view of blood vessels. On a C-arm like the Siemens Artis Zee, the system takes a 'mask' image before injecting contrast dye, then subtracts it from subsequent images, leaving only the contrast-filled vessels visible. This is essential for interventional radiology and cardiology procedures performed in centres in Lagos or Abuja.
Yes, a C-arm is essential for guiding needles accurately during pain management procedures. It provides real-time X-ray imaging for epidural steroid injections, facet joint blocks, and nerve root blocks. A compact C-arm like the Ziehm Solo Portable is ideal for these procedures as it offers excellent image quality for skeletal structures with a smaller footprint, making it easy to position in a crowded procedure room.
The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) ensures the C-arm meets safety and quality standards through its SONCAP certification process before shipment. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) is responsible for registering the C-arm as a medical device once it is in Nigeria. Your clearing agent will need the SONCAP certificate for customs clearance, and your facility will need the NAFDAC registration to legally operate the device.
Reduce radiation dose by increasing the distance from the X-ray source, using lead aprons, and minimizing fluoroscopy time. On a modern system like the Philips Zenition, use features like 'DoseWise' and 'pulsed fluoroscopy' which significantly lower the radiation output. Always position the X-ray tube below the patient and the detector above, as this reduces scatter radiation to the operator's upper body and head.
The typical warranty for a new C-arm in Nigeria is 12 months from the date of installation. This standard warranty covers all parts and labour for any manufacturing defects. For a high-end system like a Siemens Cios Alpha, some suppliers may offer an extended 24-month warranty as part of the purchase package. It is crucial to clarify if the X-ray tube is fully covered for the entire warranty period, as it is the most expensive component.
Key specifications to check are the X-ray generator power (in kW), detector type (FPD or II) and size, and software packages. For orthopaedics, a rotating anode tube and a generator of at least 5 kW, like on the GE OEC Brivo Plus, is important for imaging dense anatomy. For vascular work, ensure the system has DSA and road-mapping software. Also, check the C-arm's depth and orbital rotation to ensure it can achieve all necessary surgical views.
You perform daily quality control by visually inspecting the C-arm for damage and checking monitor brightness and contrast with a standard test pattern like the SMPTE pattern. Monthly checks, performed by a radiographer or physicist, involve using a phantom to assess image resolution, low-contrast sensitivity, and spatial accuracy. These checks ensure the system, such as a Philips Veradius, is performing optimally and safely, and they are often required by the NNRA.
The trade-in value of an old C-arm is typically low, often between NGN 1 million and NGN 5 million, depending on its age, condition, and brand. A 10-year-old working image intensifier C-arm might be offered a trade-in value by a supplier to incentivize the purchase of a new system like a GE OEC One. The value is higher if the system is a popular model with available spare parts.
Yes, advanced mobile C-arms can perform 3D imaging, providing CT-like images directly in the operating theatre. Systems like the Ziehm Vision RFD 3D or the Siemens Cios Spin can perform an orbital scan around the patient in under a minute, generating a 3D volume reconstruction. This is invaluable for complex spine or trauma surgery, allowing surgeons to verify screw placement and fracture reduction intraoperatively, improving patient outcomes.
Replacing a C-arm X-ray tube in Nigeria can cost between NGN 6 million and NGN 15 million. The price varies significantly based on the C-arm model and whether you are buying a new original equipment manufacturer (OEM) tube or a third-party replacement. For a system like a GE OEC 9900, an OEM tube will be at the higher end of this range but guarantees compatibility and performance. This cost underscores the importance of a comprehensive service contract.