A new cutting-edge x-ray suite has opened at the University of Derby to equip the next generation of radiographers with the most advanced skills possible.
The university has installed a Fujifilm Advanced Visionary X-ray Suite - the first of its kind in a university in the UK.
The new suite cost around £250,000 and is equipped with the latest technological developments in both x-ray image acquisition and x-ray image processing.
As part of the upgrade of the university’s teaching and learning materials for current and future students, two state-of-the-art phantoms have also been purchased. These models can be used to simulate pathological lesions, such as tumours in the chest.
The new kit is designed to improve the precision of imaging while reducing the operational dose rate.
The university has also unveiled a new expanded ultrasound simulation suite which features an additional three new units to help increase capacity for simulation. The new equipment, which cost a further £250,000, was funded by Health Education East Midlands to support sonography trainees in the region.
The new facilities were unveiled at a special ceremony at the University’s Clinical Skills Suite. The SoR’s president Steve Herring joined with university staff to conduct the opening ceremony.
Representatives from Fujifilm and MedaPhor, who supplied the ultrasound simulation equipment, also attended. The event included tours of the new suites as well as demonstrations of the new equipment.
Steve Herring, who had the opportunity to see the suites in action, commented: “I was made to feel very welcome by all the staff and students I met, and was pleased to have had the opportunity to present to the students on the day.
“It was a privilege to be able to attend the opening of the new suite and see all the new facilities. This investment shows just how forward-thinking the department is and will undoubtedly benefit all future and current radiography students.
“It will also benefit their patients as the students will feel so much more prepared and ready when they first step into the clinical environment.
“Learning in an immersive suite has also been shown to have a positive impact on reducing attrition from courses because it provides students with a safe and low risk environment in which to prepare for clinical work.
“All the technology that has been invested in by Derby University is truly incredible. It’s a shame I didn’t get to train on equipment like this myself."