Small Step Wedge Product Details:
Step Wedges are used in Radiology Quality Control Programs to test X-ray machine sensors and phosphor storage plates. Having a Radiology Quality Assurance Program is an important part of radiology compliance.
Texas Dentists:
In June 2019 Texas x-ray rule 25 TAC §289.232(j)(14) was updated. It now specifies that users of digital imaging acquisition systems shall follow quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) protocol for digital imaging established by the manufacturer. If a protocol cannot be established by the manufacturer, it shall be developed and implemented by the registrant (dental office). CLICK HERE FOR MORE TEXAS Specific RADIOLOGY REQUIREMENTS
How to Perform a Step Wedge Test:
The following steps outline the procedure:
- Place the step wedge with the steps facing up over a sensor and position the X-ray field over the step wedge.
- Take an exposure.
- Record the Date, Sensor Serial #, X-ray machine used, kVp, mA, Exposure time, and Source-to-Image Distance. This information will be necessary to conduct this test in the future.
- Save this image as the reference image for that X-ray sensor as proof of testing.
- Remember, you are testing the sensor, not the X-ray machine!
Once a quarter or any time that you suspect that there may be a problem with your X-ray system, create another image in the same manner as described above. Compare this image to the reference image.
Step wedge images look like a grayscale image with gradual changes from white/light to black/dark. If you notice a change in density (color) of "2 steps", you are alerted that there is a problem and corrective actions should be taken before your radiographs deteriorate in diagnostic quality.
Instructional Video: Step Wedge QA/QC Test
https://vimeo.com/470172962
NOTE: The actual step wedge you receive may not match the picture of the product and/or may have a different number of steps on it. Neither of these affect the testing process.
Large Step Wedge Product Details:
This product is meant for Panoramic x-ray machines!
Tired of looking for the stapler you used last time you did a QA check of your Pano? We now have a solution for your pano QA/QC program. The large Step Wedge is specially designed for the pano QA/QC program. While staplers are still allowed, we find that people misplace the stapler or don't realize they need to use the same exact stapler every single time they perform Quality Assurance tests on their pano machines.
Step Wedges are used in Radiology Quality Control Programs to test x-ray machine sensors and phosphor storage plates. Having a Radiology Quality Assurance Program is an important part of radiology compliance.
Texas Dentists:
In June 2019 Texas x-ray rule 25 TAC §289.232(j)(14) was updated. It now specifies that users of digital imaging acquisition systems shall follow quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) protocol for digital imaging established by the manufacturer. If a protocol cannot be established by the manufacturer, it shall be developed and implemented by the registrant (dental office). CLICK HERE FOR MORE TEXAS Specific RADIOLOGY REQUIREMENTS
Once a quarter or any time that you suspect that there may be a problem with your X-ray system, create an image to compare to your reference image.
Step wedge images look like a grayscale image with gradual changes from white/light to black/dark. If you notice a change in density (color) of "2 steps", you are alerted that there is a problem and corrective actions should be taken before your radiographs deteriorate in diagnostic quality.
Instructional Video: Step Wedge Video CBCT
https://vimeo.com/778734948
To learn more about managing a compliant radiation safety program, check out our Radiation and Laser/Radiation Safety Manuals! www.DentalCompliance.com
Contact us @ 817-755-0035
Please allow 3-5 business days for items to be shipped.
Our Step Wedge products are composed of 99.925% aluminum.
Note: Please be advised that DCS does not currently offer international shipping services.
