In short. A cath or angio lab is chosen by use: cardiology, vascular or neurointervention. The key decisions are digital or analog, single-plane or biplane, ceiling or floor mount and detector size. Then evaluate the vendor: refurbishment process, ability to back you up, realistic timelines and documentation. This guide helps you reach the supplier conversation with a clear must-have list.
Get the full guide free on WhatsApp
Which cath lab do I need?
- Digital or analog: digital is now the standard; detectors degrade less, magnify without losing field, handle motion subtraction better and offer higher resolution.
- Single-plane or biplane: biplane gives real-time 3D, useful in cardiac and neuro work, but largely doubles site preparation and costs more.
- Ceiling or floor: depends on workflow, space and preference; ceiling mounts need reinforced structure and higher ceilings.
- Detector size: small (about 20 cm) for cardiac, large (30x40 cm or more) for angio and vascular, mid-size for mixed labs.
How to make sure you get a quality system
- Refurbishment steps: decontamination, evaluation with image tests, patient data removal, cosmetic restoration, component replacement and OEM calibration.
- Backing: the vendor must be able to respond if a major component such as the detector or tube fails.
- Realistic timelines: be wary of turnkey projects promised in 30 or 60 days; purchase, transport, site prep and installation take time.
- Documentation: photos, videos and QC images before shipping, plus inspection and inventory on arrival.
Accessories and extra costs
- Hemodynamic monitoring system.
- Contrast media injector.
- Surgical lights and ceiling-mounted lead glass shield.
- PPE: lead aprons, glasses and gloves.
- Applications training (about three days recommended).
- Physicist visit, shielding and site remodeling.
- Service plan: tube coverage, parts and labor.
How much does it cost?
It depends on the model, single-plane or biplane, detector, mount, accessories, site preparation and service plan. At Solmedic every project is price on request. Financing from 3 to 12 months (max. 24) with a minimum 40% down payment, subject to approval.
What the full guide includes
The full cath lab buyer's guide covers choosing a system by specialty, how to evaluate the vendor, what to check on delivery and a breakdown of accessories and extra costs. We'll send it as a PDF on WhatsApp, no strings attached. (Guide in Spanish.)
FAQ
Single-plane or biplane? Single-plane for most facilities; biplane if you focus on cardiac and neuro and can handle more site prep.
Which detector do I need? Small for cardiac, large for vascular, mid-size for a bit of everything.
How long does a project take? Longer than many promise; plan site preparation from day one.
Is financing available? Yes, 3 to 12 months (max. 24) with a minimum 40% down payment, subject to approval.
Prefer to call? Reach us at +58 412-4345457.
