DRagon deployed to Sudan

A specialist X-ray unit that uses the world's first large area portable digital display instead of traditional X-ray film has been selected to perform in one of the world's most challenging environments, enhancing the quality of medical care available for organisations working in Sudan.

medekit.com, specialist in sourcing and supplying medical supplies, pharmaceuticals and equipment to organisations working in remote and hazardous environments has selected the DRagon, a Canon mobile Digital Radiography system from leading independent supplier of Digital Radiography (DR) solutions, Xograph Imaging Systems to provide rapid, on site mobile X ray analysis that will improve medical treatment for employees of Western commercial organisations overseas.

With the ability to deliver X-ray images in less than 3 seconds direct on to a large area digital display instead of film, the DRagon has proved that on-site X-ray facilities can be affordable and practical for companies working in hot, hostile conditions. Explains General Manager at medekit Lorna Evans, "Previously this level of support was expensive to deliver because it required the regular supply, transport and storage of film - all under optimum stable temperatures - as well as ongoing provision of film processing chemicals. Without these, we can significantly reduce the cost of operation."

Also important for suitability in a remote site medical environment is the portability. The 'DRagon' can be folded away for transportation in a medium sized vehicle, small van or ambulance. It can be supplied with a rugged transport case for shipment and rapid deployment in any part of the world.

The first DRagon to be used in earnest in Sudan will be used by medekit's sister company, Frontier Medical, whose team are responsible for delivering a comprehensive medical support service including facilities, personnel and equipment to provide high quality medical care and treatments to employees of Western commercial projects developing in Sudan.

Operations Manager at Frontier Medical, Judy Mason confirms, "Sudan is trying to open up commercial links with the West to enable reconstruction and development but the country's health infrastructure simply can't support it. What few hospitals there are in the region don't guarantee Western standard medical treatments. The DRagon will provide X-ray examinations without the need for additional consumables and beats the geographical challenges of rough terrain, heat and dust."

"The versatility of DRagon and other similar portable DR technologies from Canon make it the optimal choice for remote medical examinations and patient care. These technologies are globally proven to be robust and provide rapid results," said Neil Staff, Technical Director of Xograph Imaging Systems. "Previously, DRagon has been used by The Association of Forensic Radiographers following the London transport bombings; deployed by health authorities in Norway for elderly patient care in the patient's home; used at outdoor events such as rock festivals and horse race meetings and implemented by the military and emergency services. It's simply a case of plug it in and off you go."

DRagon is available exclusively from Xograph Imaging Systems in the UK. Xograph has been a distribution, technical and support partner of Canon for over 6 years.