What Is a Mini C-Arm Used For?
A Mini C-arm is a compact, portable fluoroscopic imaging system designed to capture real-time X-ray images of small body parts such as the hands, wrists, feet, ankles, elbows, and knees. These systems are widely used in orthopedic surgery, podiatry, sports medicine, and pain management for procedures like fracture reduction, joint injections, bunion surgery, and locating small bone fragments.
Unlike full-size C-arms, mini C-arms are optimized for extremity imaging. Their smaller C, lower radiation dose, and lightweight design make them ideal for office-based, outpatient, and surgical suite environments.
How Much Does a Mini C-Arm Cost?
The cost of a mini C-arm depends on several factors — including brand, model, condition (new vs. refurbished), and features such as image intensifier or flat detector technology.
Refurbished Mini C-Arms: Typically range from $15,000–$65,000.
New Mini C-Arms: Commonly start around $60,000 and can exceed $100,000 depending on configuration.
Additional costs: Warranties, accessories, and service contracts may add another $7,000–$15,000.
At Minicarm.com, you can explore both new and refurbished units with customizable financing and service plans to meet your clinical and budget needs.
What Is the Main Purpose of a Mini C-Arm?
The primary purpose of a mini C-arm is to provide portable, real-time fluoroscopic imaging during extremity procedures. Surgeons and clinicians can see bones and joints dynamically without transferring the patient to a radiology suite.
This enhances workflow efficiency, reduces procedure times, and supports minimally invasive techniques, especially important in orthopedic and outpatient surgical centers.
Is It Required to Wear Lead Protection?
Yes, protective lead equipment such as lead aprons and thyroid shields is typically required or strongly recommended for anyone operating or assisting during fluoroscopy.
Even though mini C-arms generate less scatter radiation compared to full-size C-arms, safety regulations and the ALARA principle (“As Low As Reasonably Achievable”) mandate radiation protection, especially when working within 3–6 feet of the beam.
How Much Does a Fluoroscan Cost?
Fluoroscan is Hologic’s brand of mini C-arms, known for high image quality and reliability.
Refurbished Fluoroscan models: Range from $15,000–$65,000.
New Fluoroscan units: Typically cost between $60,000–$80,000+, depending on the model and configuration.
Popular Hologic models include the Hologic Fluoroscan InSight 2, Hologic Fluoroscan InSight FD, and InSight FD Flex Mini C-Arms.
What Does C-Arm Fluoroscopy Mean?
C-arm fluoroscopy refers to real-time X-ray imaging technology using a C-shaped arm that connects the X-ray source and detector. The “C” design allows for flexible positioning around the patient, capturing multiple angles without repositioning them.
This technique enables dynamic visualization of bones, joints, and instruments during surgery or interventional procedures — commonly used in orthopedics, radiology, and pain management.
Advantages of Mini C-Arms
Mini C-arms provide several practical and financial benefits, particularly for extremity-focused practices:
Portability and compactness: Lightweight and easy to maneuver (30–400 lbs), ideal for offices and small procedure rooms.
Lower radiation dose: Focused beam and pulsed fluoroscopy minimize exposure for both patients and staff.
Cost-effectiveness: Lower purchase and maintenance costs compared to full-size C-arms.
Ease of use: Surgeon-operated systems simplify workflow and eliminate the need for a dedicated radiographer.
In-office efficiency: Reduces patient transfers and procedure delays, enabling same-day imaging and treatment.
Mini C-Arm Models Available at Minicarm.com
Minicarm.com offers a curated selection of top-performing mini C-arms from leading manufacturers. Models include:
Hologic Fluoroscan: InSight 2, InSight FD (exclusive U.S. distributor for new inventory).
GE OEC: 6600, 6800, and Elite MiniView.
We provide both new and fully refurbished units with warranties, as well as rental and parts options to fit your practice’s specific imaging needs.
How to Request a Mini C-Arm Quote
Getting a customized quote is quick and easy:
Call: (800) 643-2998
Email: info@minicarm.com
Our team will provide a tailored quote based on model preferences, budget, and usage frequency — including flexible options for financing, rentals, and ongoing service plans.
Final Thoughts
A Mini C-Arm is an invaluable imaging tool for any practice focusing on extremity care. Its combination of performance, portability, and lower radiation output makes it ideal for surgeons and clinicians who need high-quality imaging without the footprint or cost of a full-size unit.
Explore our full range of Hologic, GE and Orthoscan Mini C-arms at Minicarm.com and take the next step toward improving your imaging capabilities today.