XiTec XiScan 1000 mini C-arm unit.

Mini C-arm units are small, mobile fluoroscopic imaging systems-essentially miniaturized versions of mobile C-arm units. They are used most often by hand and foot surgeons to image the extremities (e.g., fingers, hand, foot). In this Evaluation, we tested the XiScan 1000 mini C-arm unit, equipped with a 6.7 cm (2.6 in) diameter image intensifier, manufactured by XiTec, Inc. (We also partially tested and rated a version of this unit with a 10 cm [4 in] image intensifier.) This study is an update of our previous mini C-arm unit Evaluation covering the FluoroScan, published in Health Devices 24(2), February 1995. Except where noted, we tested the new unit against the same criteria and using the same test methods as described in the original study. For the sake of brevity, we have not repeated our criteria or test methods in this issue. Readers wishing that information should refer to the original Evaluation or contact ECRI. In addition, the original Evaluation includes a Clinical and Technical Overview detailing many of the technical features and issues touched on below. We also draw readers' attention to other material we have published on C-arms: our Evaluation of mobile C-arms in August 1990 (19[8]), our Single Product Evaluation of the IMS Exposcop Plus mobile C-arm in March 1993 (22[3]), and our Update of the FluoroScan Evaluation in December 1995 (24[12]). Readers are cautioned not to base purchasing and use decisions on our rating alone, but on a thorough understanding of our conclusions and the issues surrounding mini C-arm units, which can be gained by reading this study and the February 1995 Evaluation in their entirety. For additional perspectives on fluoroscopy and the operation of C-arm units, refer to our earlier Evaluations of conventional C-arm units.