What Is A Film Hanger?
A film hanger is a device used in traditional radiography, particularly in the development process of X-ray films. When X-ray films are exposed to radiation during imaging procedures, they need to be developed to reveal the images captured. The film hanger is a tool designed to hold the X-ray films securely during the developing process.
Film hangers typically consist of a set of metal (Metal film hangers are often made of stainless steel or aluminum. They are durable and resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for repeated use in the development process) or plastic frames (Plastic film hangers are commonly made of materials like polyethylene or polycarbonate. They are lightweight and easy to handle, and some designs may include features such as non-slip grips or rounded edges for added convenience and safety) with clips or slots to hold the X-ray films in place.
These hangers are used to suspend the films in a series within a tank or tray containing the necessary chemicals for film development. By hanging the films in this manner, they are evenly exposed to the developing solutions, ensuring consistent and uniform development of the images.
Film hangers come in various sizes and configurations to accommodate different sizes of X-ray films, such as those used for dental imaging, general radiography, or larger imaging studies like chest X-rays.
While digital radiography has largely replaced traditional film-based methods in many settings, film hangers are still used in facilities that continue to utilize conventional X-ray film technology for image capture and development.
Types of Film Hanger.
There are three general types of processing hangers:-
A. Sheet film hanger:- The sheet film hanger holds the x-ray film taut during processing. It consists of a crossbar and rigid frame to which are attached four clips, two of which are mounted on a bow spring welded to the crossbar.
B. Dental film hanger:- The dental film hanger consists of a bar to which film clips are attached.
C. Roll film hanger:- When it is necessary to process roll film and a special processing tank is not available, a special adjustable processing hanger may be used. It will accept 35, 45, 50, 60, and 70 mm film widths and any length up to 11 feet. The outer frame is approximately the size of a 14 by 17-inch hanger and can be used in the regular processing tanks. For four by 10-inch short film and 70 mm roll film, there are special hangers, which will fit the same five-gallon tanks.
Other Types Of Film Hanger
Film hangers come in various types and configurations to accommodate different sizes and types of X-ray films, as well as specific needs in the development process. Here are some common types of film hangers:-
A. Standard Hangers:- These are the most basic type of film hangers and are typically used for general radiography. They consist of metal or plastic frames with clips to hold X-ray films securely in place. Standard hangers come in various
sizes to accommodate different film sizes, such as 8×10 inches, 10×12 inches, and larger.
B. Dental Hangers:- Dental film hangers are specifically designed for use in dental radiography. They are smaller in size and often have special clips or slots to hold small intraoral or extraoral dental X-ray films.
C. Mammography Hangers:- Mammography film hangers are designed for use in mammography imaging procedures. They are typically larger than standard hangers and may have features such as angled clips or compression paddles to ensure proper positioning and compression of the breast during imaging.
D. Cross-Table Hangers:- Cross-table film hangers are used in specialized imaging procedures, such as cross-table lateral views of the spine or extremities. They allow the X-ray film to be positioned perpendicular to the X-ray beam, enabling imaging from different angles while maintaining proper alignment and stability.
E. Magnetic Film Hangers:- Magnetic film hangers utilize magnets to hold X-ray films in place during the development process. They offer a convenient and secure way to hang films without the need for clips, reducing the risk of damage to the films.
F. Adjustable Hangers:- Adjustable film hangers feature movable clips or slots that can be adjusted to accommodate various film sizes and orientations. They provide flexibility in positioning and can be used for different types of X-ray studies.
Size Of Film Hanger
The size of film hangers varies depending on the type and intended use of the hanger. Film hangers are typically designed to accommodate specific sizes of X-ray films. Common sizes for film hangers include:
A. Small:- These hangers are usually designed for dental X-ray films or other small imaging studies. They may have dimensions around 5×7 inches or smaller.
B. Medium:- Medium-sized hangers are commonly used for general radiography and can accommodate standard-sized X-ray films, such as 8×10 inches or 10×12 inches.
C. Large:- Large film hangers are often used for mammography or other specialized imaging studies requiring larger film sizes. They may accommodate films larger than 10×12 inches, such as 14×17 inches or larger. The specific size of the hanger corresponds to the size of the X-ray film it is designed to hold. Additionally, some hangers may be adjustable, allowing them to accommodate a range of film sizes within a certain range. When selecting film hangers for use in radiography, it’s essential to choose hangers that match the size and type of X-ray films being used for the imaging studies
Book link:- Textbook of Radiology for X-ray, CT, MRI, BSc, BRIT and MSc Technicians