The Finnish medical imaging company Planmed is introducing Planmed XFI – the world’s first full-body weight-bearing CT. The Planmed XFI system can do it all, from head to toe, both laying down and under natural load. Capable of bringing views previously not seen in diagnostic imaging to the disposal of medical professionals, helping them in their most important task: making an accurate diagnosis.

Planmed

Image: Weight-bearing imaging provides a number of benefits that enable a better and more accurate treatment process to be enacted.

The need for 3D musculoskeletal imaging is rapidly increasing, yet access to magnetic resonance and computed tomography imaging might be limited. Planmed XFI is the solution for this challenge. The ultra-high resolution provided by CBCT technology is superior at detecting occult fractures, which are a challenge when using conventional radiographic imaging methods.

Planmed XFI applications include musculoskeletal imaging; orthopaedic treatment planning; maxillofacial; head and neck; ENT imaging; and full-body weightbearing imaging.

Why weight-bearing imaging?

Weight-bearing imaging refers to imaging studies that are performed while the patient is bearing weight on the affected body part. Benefits of weight-bearing imaging include:

  • Improved diagnosis: Weight-bearing imaging can provide a more accurate assessment of the extent and alignment of a fracture as well as of the stability of the joint and surrounding soft tissue structures.
  • Better evaluation of joint alignment: Weight-bearing imaging can help to evaluate the alignment of the joint, which is important for determining the best course of treatment.
  • Improved treatment planning: Weight-bearing imaging can provide a more accurate assessment of the extent and alignment of a fracture, which can help to plan the best course of treatment.
  • Better evaluation of joint function: Weight-bearing imaging can help to evaluate the function of the joint, which can be important for determining the best course of rehabilitation.
  • Improved assessment of healing: Weight-bearing imaging can be used to assess the healing of a fracture over time, which can help to determine whether a patient is ready to return to normal activities or if additional treatment is needed.
  • Reduced need for repeat imaging: Weight-bearing imaging can provide a more accurate assessment of the fracture on the first visit, which can help to reduce the need for repeat imaging.

 The world’s first full-body, weight-bearing CT

Planmed XFI will take cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging to the next level with functional full-body weight-bearing CT imaging. Upright weight-bearing imaging shows anatomy in natural alignment, which is crucial for accurate surgical planning. Imaging a standing patient shows the anatomy under natural load, which helps in highlighting the possible areas of contact (impingement) that would otherwise remain hidden or doubtful in a non-weight-bearing position. This improves the diagnostics and increases the predictability of treatments. Comparison exams between sitting and weight-bearing positions are beneficial for examining the changes in detail with superb 3D image quality.

Both prone and upright scans are possible, allowing advanced imaging protocols for optimal treatment results. The possibility to diagnose different anatomies makes Planmed XFI a versatile tool for clinics, hospitals, and imaging centres.

Furthermore, the unit is affordable considering its capacity and versatility. With cost-efficient maintenance, the total cost of ownership becomes very competitive, allowing clinicians to focus on the most important part, making an accurate diagnosis.

Low dose, quick scan, high definition

CBCT is a radiographic imaging method that allows accurate, three-dimensional imaging of hard tissue structures. CBCT provides sub-millimeter resolution images of high diagnostic quality with very short scan times. Radiation exposure from CBCT is up to ten times less than from conventional CT scans making it an excellent tool. Isotropic, high-resolution 3D voxels show bone structures with unprecedented detail. Multiplanar reconstruction provides optimal visualisation without overlapping structures and the true anatomy and orientation of the bones are easy to understand from the surface rendered images.