Most hospitals will have a silver recovery system connected to the processors to
capture the silver that washes the films as they are developed. These can cause problems
if not changed on a regular basis, and they can impede the flow of water from the
processor to the drain. Clogged drains, leaking tanks, temperature changes, and stuck
pumps are common problems with processors. If the processor rollers and racks are
cleaned on a regular basis, and the rollers are replaced as needed, they are not major
problem areas. However, they become problem areas if they are not cleaned. A good
QA program must be followed, to minimize problems with processors and to ensure
consistent results.
In most hospitals, there is a dedicated film processor for mammo films. These films are
single-emulsion films and require temperatures that are different from those of regular
radiographic study films.
When digital systems are in place for either fluoroscopic or radiographic studies, the
signals are transmitted to a device called a “laser camera” or “laser imager.” In this device,
the images are scanned onto film and transported into the film processor. These systems
are prone to failures and require regular servicing, as with any digital system. One must
be aware of light leaks between the laser camera and the processor because they can affect
the quality of the film.
A verification of this is called the “dry imaging system” or “dry laser camera.” This
device takes the digital images and “prints” them onto the acetate-base “film.” This is not
a true film; it is clear acetate that contains printed images. There is no film processor, no
cassettes, no film and no chemicals to mix. It is less expensive to operate, and environmentally
friendly, but capable of being used only with digital imaging systems. Some
radiologists are not comfortable with it. These units are found mostly in the CT and MRI
areas. These systems will become more common as PACS are installed in hospitals. PAC
systems are expensive and require major changes in department policies and procedures,
but pricing is coming down. As more digital systems are installed in procedure rooms, the
better the return will be on investments in PAC systems (Cohen, 2003).