C-Arm Cover (Fluoroscope Cover)

The C‑Arm, also known as a fluoroscopy device, is an X‑ray imaging scanner that provides real‑time radiographic capabilities for intra‑operative visualization. Because it is positioned close to the surgical field, the C‑Arm can become a vector for microbial contamination if it is not properly protected. Employing a sterile C-Arm cover reduces the risk of infection and simplifies workflow by eliminating the need for time‑consuming sterilization of the machine after each surgery. In this article, we will introduce disposable C‑Arm covers, discuss their advantages, and explain how they are used.

What Is a C-Arm Machine?

The C‑Arm, also called a fluoroscopy unit, is a mobile X‑ray imaging system that consists of a C‑shaped gantry housing an X‑ray tube and an image detector.

The curved design allows the X‑ray source and detector to rotate around the patient’s body, providing real‑time, high‑resolution radiographic images during surgical or interventional procedures.

Applications of C‑Arm (Fluoroscopy Device)

Fluoroscopy devices are employed in a wide range of surgical and diagnostic procedures, including:

• Orthopedic surgery: to assist in diagnosing and fixing fractures, insert screws and plates, and verify the correct positioning of prostheses.
• Spinal surgery: to help diagnose and treat vertebral dislocations and fractures, and enable accurate placement of spinal or cervical prostheses.
• Urological and lithotripsy procedures: to locate urinary stones precisely and guide the probe to the exact target.
• Detection of retained foreign items: to identify missing gauze, surgical instruments, or needles and confirm their exact location (or confirm their absence).
• Cardiac catheterization: to facilitate insertion of cardiovascular catheters for evaluating vascular congestion.
• Angioplasty: to determine the site of vascular narrowing and ensure proper stent placement.

A Major Challenge in Healthcare

All devices that are used in the operating room and come into close or direct contact with the patient’s surgical site must be sterile.  However, for large equipment such as microscopes, surgical lights, C‑Arm devices and certain items like endoscopes, sensors, or probes, sterilization can be difficult, time‑consuming, or even impossible. Moreover, many medical centers do not have a dedicated sterile‑processing method for these devices.

The most effective solution is to use sterile covers that fit over the devices and prevent contamination from reaching the operative field.

What Is a C-Arm Cover?

A C‑Arm cover is a sterile barrier that fits over the C‑Arm scanner during a procedure. It acts as a physical shield that any contamination transfer from the device to the surgical site, ensuring complete patient safety.

Because the cover isolates the equipment, the C‑Arm itself does not need to be sterilized after each case. The used cover is simply removed and a fresh one is applied before the next operation.

Limitations of Fabric C‑Arm Covers

In the past, permanent fabric covers that were sewn to match each machine were used. After every procedure these covers had to be washed, disinfected, packed, and sterilized again.

These steps require the CSSD staff to sterilize the covers, which wastes a great deal of time. When many surgeries are scheduled in a single day, the sterile cover process becomes costly and demands additional personnel and equipment.

Moreover, fabric covers are not impermeable; moisture can penetrate them. Consequently, if blood or other secretions splash onto the cover, whether from the surgical field or from contact with the surgical team, the cover can become non‑sterile.

Advantages of Using Disposable C‑Arm Covers

Disposable C‑Arm covers offer several key benefits, including:

• The cover can be applied right before a case and removed afterward without any additional cleaning.
• Using disposable covers eliminates the need for re‑processing, preserving valuable time and reducing the workload of CSSD.
• The sealed, impermeable design prevents blood, irrigation fluid, and other contaminants from penetrating the cover.
• By eliminating the risk of cross‑contamination between cases, overall infection control measures are improved.
• By preventing direct contact of the device with fluids, disinfectants, and contaminants, any potential damage to its sensitive components is avoided.
• The ease of changing a cover between surgeries streamlines workflow in busy surgical suites.

AJP C-Arm Covers

Asia Jarah Pishro, a leading company with more than 20 years of experience in manufacturing disposable surgical supplies, offers C‑Arm covers with the following specifications:

• Disposable
• Made from high‑quality polyethylene
• Latex‑free
• Sterilized with ethylene‑oxide (EtO) gas
• Continuous quality control during production and storage
• Presented in a safe and secure sterile package (V‑Pack)
• Stored and transported using proper methods
• Remain sterile for up to three years from the date of manufacture, provided the packaging is intact and unopened.

Insertion of C-Arm Cover

AJP fluoroscope covers are made of two soft, flexible polyethylene films that fold easily. The films can be positioned to envelop the entire C‑shaped arm of any C‑Arm model. The smaller piece is designed to cover the lower arm, while the larger piece fits over the upper arm. A set of adhesive straps (tapes) secures the cover to the C‑Arm, making the installation quick and reliable.

You can watch the installation of the C‑Arm cover in the video below: