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A Mobile C-ARM System is a medical imaging device that provides real-time X-ray imaging during surgical, orthopedic, and emergency care procedures. It consists of an X-ray source (generator) and a detector (image intensifier or flat-panel detector) connected by a C-shaped arm, allowing physicians, surgeons, and radiologists to view live images of a patient's anatomy. This intraoperative imaging is critical for guiding instrument placement in procedures like fracture reduction, catheter insertion, and foreign body removal, significantly improving precision, reducing procedure time, and enhancing patient safety in Nigerian operating theatres and clinics.
New Mobile C-ARM Systems in Nigeria range from NGN 45 million for entry-level models to over NGN 180 million for advanced systems with flat-panel detectors and specialized software. Refurbished units typically cost between NGN 18 million and NGN 65 million. The final price is driven by key factors including the brand (e.g., GE, Siemens, Philips command a premium), detector type (Flat Panel is more expensive than Image Intensifier), generator power, included software packages (e.g., vascular, cardiac), and accessories like surgical tables and lead aprons. Your final quote will also be heavily influenced by fluctuating foreign exchange rates, international freight costs, customs duties, local logistics, installation fees, and the length of the warranty and training package included. Always demand a line-item quote that clearly separates the cost of the machine from shipping, installation, training, and regulatory compliance support.
For a detailed, tailored quote that reflects your specific clinical needs and facility readiness, contact Franance.
The cheapest, safe Mobile C-ARM Systems are professionally refurbished units with image intensifiers, which start from NGN 18 million to NGN 35 million. These systems typically offer minimum viable specifications, such as a 9-inch image intensifier, a rotating anode X-ray tube, and basic fluoroscopy and radiography modes, which are sufficient for general orthopedic procedures. Be aware that the lowest price often comes with significant limitations and hidden costs. The warranty may be limited to 3-6 months, and the quote might exclude critical components like a high-quality UPS, lead aprons, or the cost of freight from the port to your facility. You may also face extra charges for installation, calibration by a certified engineer, and mandatory NNRA certification.
Contact Franance to explore vetted, cost-effective options that don't compromise on safety or performance.
An affordable Mobile C-ARM System is a best-value bundle that costs between NGN 45 million and NGN 75 million, including the core unit plus all necessary accessories and services for immediate, reliable operation. This price typically covers a new, entry-level system from a reputable brand or a high-grade refurbished model like a GE OEC 9900 Elite. The key to affordability is bundling the C-ARM with a compatible operating table, a 15 kVA online UPS, a set of lead aprons, on-site installation, OEM-certified calibration, and comprehensive user training. This approach minimizes unexpected expenses and can reduce total 12-month operational costs by 15-20% by preventing downtime caused by power issues or improper use.
Contact Franance to configure an affordable, all-inclusive C-ARM package for your facility.
New Mobile C-ARM Systems typically range from NGN 45 million to NGN 180+ million, while professionally refurbished units cost between NGN 18 million and NGN 65 million, representing a 40-60% initial cost saving. New systems offer the latest flat-panel detector technology, advanced software, a full 1-2 year manufacturer's warranty, and longer operational lifecycles (10+ years). Refurbished systems, often models like the GE OEC 9800 or 9900, provide proven image intensifier technology but come with shorter warranties (3-12 months), older software, and a shorter remaining lifespan (5-7 years). Lead times for new units can be 12-16 weeks, whereas refurbished systems are often available in 6-8 weeks.
| Feature | New Mobile C-ARM System | Refurbished Mobile C-ARM System |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | NGN 45M - 180M+ | NGN 18M - 65M |
| Technology | Latest Flat-Panel Detectors | Proven Image Intensifiers |
| Warranty | 1-2 years comprehensive | 3-12 months, often limited |
| Software | Latest versions, cyber-secure | Older, may lack new features |
| Lead Time | 12-16 weeks | 6-8 weeks |
| Lifespan | 10+ years | 5-7 years |
| Service Support | Guaranteed OEM support | Dependent on refurbisher's parts stock |
Contact Franance to analyze the total cost of ownership for both new and refurbished options.
Contact Franance today for a comprehensive, no-obligation quote on a Mobile C-ARM System tailored to your facility's needs and budget.
You can buy Mobile C-ARM Systems from specialized medical equipment suppliers primarily located in major commercial hubs like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. The most reliable method is to engage with suppliers who are authorized distributors for major brands like GE Healthcare, Siemens Healthineers, Philips, or Ziehm Imaging. Before committing, you must verify the supplier's credibility. Check their Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) registration, confirm they have factory-trained biomedical engineers on staff, and ask for proof of their OEM partnership. Franance simplifies this by maintaining a network of pre-vetted suppliers, each having passed a rigorous verification workflow that includes checking their technical capabilities, financial stability, and track record of successful installations in Nigeria.
Contact Franance to connect with verified, reliable Mobile C-ARM suppliers in Nigeria.
Franance is a verified, full-service partner for acquiring Mobile C-ARM Systems in Nigeria, offering end-to-end procurement, installation, and support services nationwide. We leverage our network of OEM-certified partners and in-house expertise to ensure your facility gets the right equipment, installed correctly and supported reliably. Our service coverage extends from major cities like Lagos and Abuja to more remote locations, ensuring every client receives the same high standard of service. We manage the entire process, from needs assessment and sourcing to logistics, compliance, and after-sales support, acting as your single point of contact and accountability.
The best Mobile C-ARM Systems for Nigerian tertiary hospitals are high-end, flat-panel detector models like the Siemens Cios Alpha, GE OEC Elite CFD, or Philips Zenition 70, which range from NGN 120 million to NGN 180+ million. For private clinics and general hospitals, the best value is found in mid-range systems like the GE OEC Brivo Plus or a high-spec refurbished Philips Pulsera, costing between NGN 60 million and NGN 100 million. Entry-level facilities or those on a tight budget are best served by reliable image intensifier models from brands like Allengers or high-grade refurbished GE OEC 9800 units, priced from NGN 35 million to NGN 55 million. The "best" system is the one that matches your clinical workload, budget, and the local service support available.
Comparing Mobile C-ARM models requires looking beyond price to specifications that directly impact clinical outcomes, workflow efficiency, and long-term reliability in the Nigerian environment. High-end models like the Siemens Cios series offer superior image quality and lower radiation doses due to their flat-panel detectors, making them ideal for sensitive procedures. Mid-range workhorses like the GE OEC 9900 Elite (refurbished) provide a proven, reliable platform for orthopedics with excellent image quality from its 1k x 1k image intensifier. Entry-level models are simpler, more robust, and better suited for environments with unstable power, but offer lower image resolution.
| Tier | Best for | Key Specs | Lead-time | Maintenance | Power Needs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced | Tertiary Hospitals (Vascular, Cardiac) | 12" Flat-Panel Detector, >15kW Generator, DSA/3D Software | 12-16 weeks | High (Software updates, detector care) | 15 kVA Online UPS (Mandatory) |
| Mid-Range | General Hospitals (Orthopedics, Urology) | 9" or 12" Image Intensifier, Rotating Anode Tube, 5-7.5kW | 8-12 weeks | Moderate (Annual PM, tube checks) | 10 kVA Online UPS (Recommended) |
| Entry-Level | Small Clinics, Rural Outreach | 9" Image Intensifier, Stationary Anode Tube, 3.5kW | 6-10 weeks | Low (Fewer moving parts, simpler electronics) | 10 kVA Online UPS (Essential) |
The best Mobile C-ARM brands in Nigeria are GE Healthcare, Siemens Healthineers, and Philips, due to their established track record of reliability, superior image quality, and, most importantly, the availability of local technical support and spare parts. GE's OEC line (e.g., OEC Elite, and the widely available refurbished OEC 9900) is renowned for its durability and user-friendly interface, making it a favourite in orthopedics. Siemens' Cios series (e.g., Cios Select, Cios Alpha) is a leader in imaging innovation, offering excellent low-dose performance ideal for complex surgeries. Philips (e.g., Zenition, Pulsera) is known for its excellent workflow integration and system robustness. Choosing one of these brands ensures you are not left stranded when service is required.
Mobile C-ARM System prices in Nigeria are provided in ranges due to fluctuating exchange rates, shipping costs, and customizable configurations.
When you receive a range-based quote, it's a preliminary estimate. The final price is determined after a detailed needs assessment. For example, a quote of "NGN 70M - 90M" for a mid-range system might land at the lower end if you don't need an advanced vascular package and your facility's power supply is already stable. Conversely, it could reach the higher end if you require specialized software, a larger detector, and a comprehensive 3-year service contract. Always assume prices are quoted ex-Lagos and will have additional costs for inland transportation, insurance, and installation, unless specified as a "turnkey" price.
The five most decisive specifications for a Mobile C-ARM are the detector type and size, X-ray generator power, software capabilities, and cooling system.
The installation and calibration process for a Mobile C-ARM in Nigeria typically takes 3-5 working days and costs between NGN 500,000 and NGN 1,500,000, depending on location and complexity. A turnkey process begins with a site readiness assessment, where the vendor inspects your proposed operating theatre for adequate space, door clearance, and, most importantly, power quality. This includes verifying a stable, earthed power outlet connected to a dedicated online UPS. Once the unit is delivered, OEM-certified engineers will perform the physical installation, connect it to the power supply, and carry out the critical calibration using specialized phantoms to ensure image quality and radiation dose accuracy meet manufacturer and regulatory standards. The process concludes with acceptance testing and basic user training for your clinical team.
Let Franance manage your entire turnkey installation, from site assessment and power conditioning to final calibration and NNRA certification, for a seamless, compliant setup.
Delivery of a Mobile C-ARM System in Nigeria takes between 6 to 16 weeks from payment confirmation. New systems from Europe or the USA typically have a 12-16 week timeline, covering factory production, sea freight, customs clearance, and inland delivery. Refurbished units may arrive faster, in 6-10 weeks. The process involves securing import permits, managing customs clearance at a port like Apapa (which can take 1-3 weeks), and then arranging secure, insured inland logistics to your facility. Logistics costs, including freight, insurance, and customs duties, can add 15-25% to the equipment's base price. It is critical that your supplier has proven experience navigating Nigerian customs to avoid costly delays and demurrage charges.
A standard warranty for a new Mobile C-ARM System in Nigeria is 12 months, covering all parts and labour. For refurbished units, warranties range from 3 to 12 months and may be limited to parts only. A comprehensive service level agreement (SLA) is crucial. This should guarantee a 24-48 hour response time from a qualified engineer, include at least two preventive maintenance visits per year, and specify the availability of critical loaner parts. Some advanced systems from brands like Siemens offer remote diagnostics, allowing engineers to troubleshoot issues over the internet, significantly reducing downtime. Always clarify if the warranty is provided directly by the OEM or by the local vendor, as OEM-backed warranties offer a higher level of assurance.
Refurbished Mobile C-ARM Systems in Nigeria range from NGN 18 million to NGN 65 million and are an excellent option for facilities with limited budgets. The most reliable refurbished units are "cosmetically and functionally refurbished" by specialized companies in the US or Europe. This means they are disassembled, cleaned, repainted, and have key components like batteries and high-voltage cables replaced. Critical components like the X-ray tube and image intensifier are tested to ensure they meet OEM specifications. Always demand the refurbishment report, which details the work done and the age/condition of major components. A reputable refurbished system should come with at least a 6-12 month parts and labour warranty.
To verify you are buying an original Mobile C-ARM, you must purchase from an OEM-authorized distributor and validate the unit's serial number directly with the manufacturer. Red flags for fake or grey-market equipment include an unusually low price, the absence of official documentation, and a supplier who cannot provide a letter of authorization from the brand (e.g., GE, Siemens). Before final payment, insist on seeing the serial number on the machine's chassis and cross-reference it with the number on the shipping documents and the manufacturer's database. Counterfeit systems often use substandard parts, run on pirated software, and pose a significant radiation safety risk. They will not be serviceable by the official brand representatives in Nigeria.
Essential accessories for a Mobile C-ARM System include a radiolucent operating table (NGN 2M - 8M), radiation protection gear, and a DICOM printer. Radiation protection is non-negotiable and must include at least two lead aprons (NGN 150k - 400k each), thyroid collars, and leaded glasses. A high-resolution thermal printer (e.g., Sony or Mitsubishi) is needed for hard copies of images. It is most cost-effective to bundle these accessories with the main C-ARM purchase. This not only simplifies procurement but also ensures compatibility (e.g., the table's radiolucency is adequate) and can lead to a package discount of 5-10% from the supplier.
Mobile C-ARM Systems require a clean, stable, single-phase 220-240V / 50Hz power supply from a dedicated circuit. Due to the unreliable power grid in Nigeria, a 10-15 kVA online double-conversion UPS is not optional; it is mandatory. This type of UPS completely isolates the sensitive C-ARM electronics from voltage spikes, sags, and frequency fluctuations, which can damage the X-ray generator and detector, leading to costly repairs. The facility must also have proper electrical earthing (grounding) to ensure patient and operator safety. Before installation, your supplier should conduct a power audit to confirm your electrical infrastructure can support the system.
To legally operate a Mobile C-ARM System in Nigeria, your facility must obtain a license from the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA). This is the most critical compliance step. The process involves submitting an application, providing details of the equipment, demonstrating that your room is shielded appropriately (if required), and designating a trained Radiation Safety Officer (RSO). Additionally, the equipment itself must meet the standards of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), usually confirmed through a SONCAP certificate provided by the importer. While NAFDAC registration is not typically required for the C-ARM itself, any injectable contrast media used with it must be NAFDAC-approved.
Financing for Mobile C-ARM Systems in Nigeria is available through commercial bank loans, specialized asset leasing companies, and dedicated healthcare financing partners like Franance. Bank loans typically require 20-30% equity contribution, significant collateral, and come with interest rates of 20-28% per annum, with an approval timeline of 2-4 months. Leasing is a faster alternative where you pay a monthly fee to use the equipment for a set period (e.g., 3-5 years), often with options to purchase at the end. Franance offers tailored financing solutions with more flexible terms, faster approval times (2-4 weeks), and a structure that can bundle the cost of the equipment, installation, and service into a single plan. NGOs can also access these systems through grants or partnerships with international donor organizations.
The total cost of ownership (TCO) for a Mobile C-ARM in Nigeria over five years is typically 1.5 to 2 times the initial purchase price. A mid-range system purchased for NGN 70 million could have a 5-year TCO of NGN 105-140 million. This calculation includes the initial capital outlay, the cost of a mandatory UPS (NGN 2-4M), annual comprehensive service contracts after the first year's warranty expires (5-8% of equipment cost annually, i.e., NGN 3.5M-5.6M per year), electricity consumption, potential X-ray tube replacement (NGN 8M-15M), and costs for consumables like printer film and sterile drapes. Factoring in TCO is critical for accurate financial planning and demonstrates why a slightly more expensive but reliable machine with strong local support can be cheaper in the long run.
Tertiary and teaching hospitals require high-performance, versatile Mobile C-ARM Systems capable of handling complex cases in neurosurgery, cardiology, and vascular surgery. The recommended choice is an advanced system with a 12-inch Flat-Panel Detector, a powerful 15-25 kW generator, and a high-heat-capacity X-ray tube. Essential features include Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA), road-mapping, and 3D imaging capabilities. Models like the Siemens Cios Alpha or GE OEC Elite CFD are ideal, providing superior image quality at the lowest possible radiation dose, which is critical for lengthy and delicate procedures.
Private clinics, particularly those specializing in orthopedics, pain management, and urology, need a reliable and efficient workhorse C-ARM. The best option is a mid-range system with a 9 or 12-inch Image Intensifier (or an entry-level flat panel), a rotating anode X-ray tube, and an intuitive user interface. A system like the Philips Pulsera or a professionally refurbished GE OEC 9900 Elite offers an excellent balance of performance and cost. Key features are excellent image quality for bone and soft tissue, a large C-arm opening for easy patient access, and robust data management for efficient workflow.
NGOs and mobile medical units require Mobile C-ARM Systems that are durable, easy to transport, and simple to operate in challenging environments with unstable power. The ideal system is a compact, entry-level model with a 9-inch Image Intensifier and a robust, stationary anode X-ray tube. These systems have fewer moving parts, are more tolerant of power fluctuations (when paired with a UPS), and have a smaller physical footprint. Simplicity is key; a straightforward user interface allows for rapid deployment and use by various medical teams in outreach settings.
For emergency rooms, operating theatres, and ICUs, the key requirements for a Mobile C-ARM are speed, maneuverability, and ease of use. A compact C-ARM with a simple, icon-driven interface is essential for rapid start-up and operation during critical situations like emergency fracture reductions or central line placements. The system should have a small footprint to navigate crowded rooms and be easy to position around the patient bed or operating table. Features like a laser aimer for precise positioning and simple image storage/export functions are highly valuable in these fast-paced environments.
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A new mobile C-arm in Nigeria costs between NGN 45 million and NGN 120 million. For example, a mid-range system like the Siemens Cios Select is typically in the NGN 50-70 million range, while a high-end vascular unit like the GE OEC Elite CFD can exceed NGN 100 million. Your final cost depends on the model, detector type (image intensifier vs. flat-panel), and included software packages for orthopedics or cardiology.
A quality refurbished mobile C-arm in Lagos typically costs between NGN 20 million and NGN 45 million. A professionally refurbished GE OEC 9800 Plus, a popular choice for orthopedic work, falls within the NGN 25-35 million range. This price usually includes installation, basic training, and a limited warranty of 6-12 months. Ensure the vendor provides a certificate of refurbishment and a clear service history for the unit.
You can buy mobile C-arms from authorized distributors of major brands or specialized medical equipment suppliers in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. For a new Siemens Cios Alpha, you would contact the official Siemens Healthineers partner in Nigeria. For refurbished options like a Philips Pulsera, reputable suppliers who offer after-sales support and engineering services are your best bet. Always verify their service center capabilities before purchasing.
A mobile C-arm requires a dedicated, stable 220-240V, 15-20 Amp power outlet with proper grounding. Due to power fluctuations in Nigeria, you must connect the C-arm, such as a GE OEC 9900 Elite, to a high-capacity uninterruptible power supply (UPS) of at least 5kVA. This protects the delicate electronics, like the X-ray tube and detector, from surges and ensures you can safely complete a procedure during a power outage from the grid.
Choose a new C-arm if you need the latest technology and have the budget; otherwise, a refurbished unit offers excellent value. A new system like the Philips Zenition 70 provides advanced imaging and lower radiation dose, ideal for complex vascular procedures. However, a well-refurbished GE OEC 9800 from a trusted vendor is a reliable workhorse for general surgery and orthopedics at less than half the cost, making it a practical choice for many Nigerian facilities.
You can secure C-arm financing through asset financing plans from commercial banks or specialized healthcare financing companies like Franance. These institutions offer lease-to-own options that allow you to acquire a high-value asset like a Ziehm Vision RFD 3D without a large upfront payment. You will need to provide a comprehensive business plan, cash flow projections, and company registration documents. This route helps preserve your capital for operational expenses.
You must obtain a 'License to Use' ionizing radiation equipment from the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) before operating any C-arm. The application requires details of your facility's radiation safety program, the appointment of a Radiation Safety Officer (RSO), and the specific model, like a Siemens Cios Fit. The NNRA will inspect your facility's shielding and safety protocols in person before issuing the license, a process that can take 2-4 months.
GE's OEC series is widely regarded as the industry standard for orthopedic procedures in Nigeria due to its excellent image quality and durability. The GE OEC 9900 Elite, for instance, offers a 1k x 1k image resolution and specific orthopedic software packages that enhance visualization of bones and implants. While brands like Siemens and Ziehm also offer excellent orthopedic capabilities, the widespread availability of GE service engineers in Nigeria makes it a practical choice.
You need a minimum operating room space of 4 meters by 5 meters (20 square meters) to comfortably operate a mobile C-arm. This allows for full rotation and movement of the C-arm, such as a Philips Veradius Unity, around the operating table. It also provides adequate space for the surgical team, anesthesia equipment, and the C-arm's monitor cart. Ensure doorways are at least 1 meter wide to easily move the unit between theaters.
A 12-inch image intensifier (II) provides a larger field of view, which is better for abdominal, vascular, or spine procedures where you need to see more anatomy in a single shot. A 9-inch II, common on systems like the GE OEC 9800, offers higher image resolution and is ideal for orthopedic work on extremities like hands and feet. The choice depends on your primary clinical application; a 9-inch is sufficient and more common for general-purpose use in Nigeria.
A mobile C-arm requires professional calibration at least once a year as part of its preventive maintenance schedule. This process, performed by a qualified biomedical engineer, ensures the dose area product (DAP) meter is accurate and the image quality meets manufacturer specifications for a model like the Siemens Cios Alpha. Daily quality assurance (QA) checks should also be performed by the radiographer to spot any immediate deviations in performance before clinical use.
A blurry C-arm image is often caused by patient movement, incorrect focal distance, or a failing X-ray tube. First, ensure the patient is still and the image intensifier is as close to the patient as possible. If the issue persists on a system like a Philips Pulsera, it could indicate the X-ray tube is nearing the end of its life, characterized by a need for higher kVp and mA settings to achieve a usable image. A service engineer must diagnose this.
A comprehensive preventative maintenance (PM) plan includes electrical safety checks, mechanical inspection of the C-arm's movements, cleaning of optics and filters, and full image quality and radiation output calibration. For a GE OEC 9900, the engineer will also check the workstation software, backup system data, and inspect the high-voltage cables for wear. This is typically done annually or biannually and is crucial for NNRA compliance and ensuring equipment longevity.
The physical installation and commissioning of a mobile C-arm typically takes 1-2 days. This includes uncrating the unit, performing electrical safety tests, connecting it to a UPS, and calibrating the imaging system. Following this, applications training for your radiographers and surgeons on the specific system, like a Ziehm Vision FD, usually takes another 2-3 days. The entire process from delivery to clinical use is about one week, assuming the room is prepared.
Leasing can be a better option if you want to conserve capital and avoid a large upfront investment. A lease allows you to use a modern C-arm, like a Philips Zenition 50, for a fixed monthly fee that often includes maintenance. Buying is better for long-term ownership if you have the capital, as the total cost over time is lower. For many new or expanding facilities in Nigeria, leasing provides immediate access to technology without draining financial resources.
The primary ongoing costs are the annual service contract and potential X-ray tube replacement. A comprehensive service contract for a mid-range C-arm in Nigeria costs between NGN 1.5 million and NGN 3 million annually. The X-ray tube, which has a finite lifespan of about 5-7 years depending on use, can cost NGN 5-10 million to replace on a model like the GE OEC 9800. Factoring these costs into your budget is essential for uninterrupted service.
You can get a Philips C-arm repaired by either the official Philips-authorized service partner in Nigeria or a reputable third-party medical engineering company with certified experience on Philips systems. For a complex model like the Philips Veradius, it is highly recommended to use the authorized partner to ensure genuine parts and software updates. Independent engineers are a cost-effective option for older models like the Pulsera, but you must verify their training and access to parts.
Your staff, primarily radiographers and surgeons, require applications training specific to the C-arm model you purchase. This training, usually provided by the vendor over 2-3 days, covers system operation, image optimization, radiation safety features, and basic troubleshooting for your new Siemens Cios Fit. Additionally, your radiographers must have a valid practicing license and your Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) must be certified by the NNRA to oversee its safe use.
Yes, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) regulates the importation of all medical equipment, including mobile C-arms, through its SONCAP program. To import a C-arm, your supplier must provide a Product Certificate (PC) and a SONCAP Certificate (SC) for the specific model. This ensures the equipment meets minimum safety and quality standards before it can be cleared at a Nigerian port like Apapa in Lagos. Failure to comply results in significant delays and penalties.
A flat-panel detector (FPD) is a modern digital technology that provides higher image quality, a larger dynamic range, and a lower radiation dose compared to a traditional image intensifier (II). C-arms like the GE OEC Elite CFD use FPDs, delivering distortion-free images ideal for complex vascular and cardiac work. While more expensive, an FPD is significantly better, offering superior performance and a longer lifespan than an II, which can degrade over time.
Choose a supplier in Abuja by verifying their track record, checking for an in-house team of factory-trained engineers, and asking for references from other hospitals they've supplied. A reliable vendor for a brand like Ziehm will have a physical office and service workshop, not just a sales representative. Request to see their inventory of spare parts and ask about their standard response time for service calls within the FCT before making a commitment.
For full compliance, you need three key sets of documents. First, import documents including the SONCAP certificate and customs clearance papers. Second, your NNRA License to Use, which requires a radiation safety plan and RSO details. Third, a service report from a qualified engineer confirming the C-arm, like a GE OEC 9900, has been professionally installed and calibrated according to manufacturer and NNRA standards. Keep these records accessible for regulatory inspections.
A C-arm overheats during long procedures because the X-ray tube's heat capacity is exceeded. This is common in lengthy vascular or spine cases with continuous fluoroscopy. To manage this, use pulsed fluoroscopy instead of continuous mode, which gives the tube cooling time between exposures. High-end systems like the Siemens Cios Alpha have advanced liquid cooling systems to better manage heat and allow for longer procedures compared to air-cooled entry-level models.
No, you should not power a C-arm directly with a regular generator due to unstable voltage output, which can damage the machine's sensitive electronics. The correct setup is to have your generator power a high-quality online double-conversion UPS (at least 5kVA), which then provides clean, stable power to the C-arm. This protects your investment in a system like a Philips Zenition and ensures consistent performance during procedures, especially in areas with unreliable power grids.
The first step is to prepare the room by ensuring the floor is level and the required dedicated power outlet with a UPS is installed. Next, schedule the installation and commissioning with your vendor's engineer. Concurrently, begin the NNRA licensing application process, as it can take several months. Finally, arrange for applications training for your clinical team to coincide with the week of installation so they can start using the new C-arm safely and effectively.
DAP stands for Dose Area Product, and it is a measure of the total radiation dose delivered to the patient during a procedure. It is displayed in units like cGy.cm² on the monitor of your C-arm, such as a GE OEC Elite. The NNRA requires you to record the DAP for each patient as part of your radiation safety and quality assurance program. Using features like pulsed fluoro and collimation helps reduce the DAP value and minimizes the patient's radiation exposure.
An annual comprehensive service contract for a C-arm in Nigeria typically costs 5-8% of the equipment's purchase price. For a mid-range C-arm valued at NGN 50 million, this translates to NGN 2.5 million to NGN 4 million per year. This fee usually covers two preventive maintenance visits, all labor for repairs, and the cost of non-consumable spare parts. A labor-only contract is a cheaper alternative but leaves you responsible for the high cost of parts like an X-ray tube.
The lifespan of a mobile C-arm's X-ray tube is typically 5 to 10 years, heavily dependent on usage. A tube in a busy orthopedic theatre in Lagos using long, high-dose exposures may last only 5-7 years. In contrast, a tube in a facility performing short, low-dose pain management procedures might last over 10 years. Systems like the GE OEC 9900 have tube heat indicators to help radiographers manage usage and prolong the tube's life.
Yes, affordable options for small clinics are primarily high-quality refurbished C-arms. A professionally refurbished GE OEC 9600 or Philips Libra, costing between NGN 18-25 million, provides reliable imaging for basic orthopedic and general surgery without the high capital cost of a new machine. These systems are proven workhorses and, when sourced from a reputable supplier with good engineering support, represent a smart, budget-conscious investment for a smaller facility.
Verify a vendor by requesting to speak with at least three of their existing hospital clients in Nigeria about their after-sales support. Ask to see their workshop and their inventory of spare parts for the C-arm model you intend to buy, for instance, a Siemens Cios Select. Confirm that they have at least one factory-trained engineer for that specific model on their payroll. A serious vendor will readily provide this proof; a lack of transparency is a major red flag.