C-Arm Machine - Definition, Types, Components, and Uses in Surgery

Discover the C-Arm Machine and how it's used to enhance your medical practice.
Medical Equipment Finance
3 min
11 December 2025

A C-arm machine is a vital medical imaging device that delivers real-time, high-quality images to assist surgeons and clinicians during diagnostic and surgical procedures. This guide covers what a C-arm is, its working mechanism, major components, and different types, along with its use in fields such as orthopaedics, cardiology, urology, and emergency care. It also explains how C-arms compare to other imaging systems, what influences their pricing, and the financing options available, helping healthcare providers select the most suitable model for their needs.

What is a C-arm machine?

A C-arm machine is a diagnostic imaging device that uses X-ray technology to produce real-time, high-clarity visuals during medical and surgical procedures. It gets its name from the C-shaped arm that links the X-ray source to the image detector, allowing the unit to move freely around the patient. This mobility helps clinicians view the targeted area instantly and with precision, making C-arms essential in specialities such as orthopaedics, cardiology, urology, and trauma care.

Types of C-arm machine

C-arm machines come in different types to cater to specific medical needs:

  • Fixed C-arm machines

  • Mobile C-arm machines

  • Mini C-arm machines

How doctors use C-arm machines in surgery?

Here are the major applications and advantages of a C-arm system:

  • Real-time imaging: The device sends X-rays through the body and displays them instantly on a monitor, ensuring continuous visual guidance during procedures.
  • Multi-angle coverage: The rotating C-shaped arm provides clear views from multiple angles without needing to reposition the patient.
  • Procedural guidance: Surgeons use live imaging to place implants, confirm alignment, navigate instruments, and track progress with accuracy.
  • Flexible imaging modes: Options like fluoroscopy, pulsed fluoroscopy, magnification, and exposure control help customise image quality for different clinical situations.
  • Improved efficiency and safety: Better visibility reduces repeat imaging, shortens surgery time, minimises errors, and enhances workflow inside the operating room.

Components of C-arm machine

Mobile C-arm machines are versatile and can be moved around easily. They work by emitting X-rays that pass through the body, capturing real-time images. Key components include:

  • X-ray source

  • Image intensifier

  • Monitor

  • Control panel

How does a Mobile C-arm Machine Work?

A mobile C-arm machine operates by using X-ray technology to produce real-time, continuous images during medical procedures. The X-ray tube and image detector sit on opposite ends of a C-shaped arm that moves freely around the patient to capture different angles. As X-rays pass through the body, the detector converts them into live images on a monitor, helping surgeons visualise and guide their actions with greater precision.

How is a C-arm different from radiography or fixed fluoroscopy machines?

C-arm machines offer real-time imaging during procedures, unlike radiography or fixed fluoroscopy systems, and are often used alongside critical care tools like a defibrillator machine for better surgical precision and patient safety.

Feature

C-arm

Radiography

Fixed Fluoroscopy

Primary Function

Real-time imaging during surgery

Static image capture (like a photograph)

Real-time imaging for diagnosis

Mobility

Mobile and flexible. Can be moved between rooms

Stationary. Usually fixed in a radiology department

Stationary. Fixed in a radiology department

Purpose

To guide procedures (e.g., surgery, orthopaedics, cardiology)

To take diagnostic images for diagnosis

To visualize the flow of fluids (like contrast agents or blood) for diagnosis

Image Type

Dynamic, "X-ray movie"

Static, single image

Dynamic, "X-ray movie"

 

Uses of C-arm machine

C-arm machines are used across many medical specialities because they offer real-time, high-quality imaging during procedures.

Primary uses:

  • Minimally invasive surgery: Provides live imaging to help surgeons target internal structures with precision.
  • Orthopedics: Assists in fracture reduction, implant fixation, and joint replacement surgeries.
  • Cardiac and vascular care: Supports angiography, catheter guidance, and stent placement.
  • Pain management: Enables accurate needle placement for injections and therapeutic procedures.

Other uses:

  • Neurosurgery: Offers continuous imaging support for complex spinal and cranial procedures.
  • Urology: Helps in stone removal, stent placement, and other urological interventions.
  • Emergency care: Provides rapid real-time imaging in trauma and critical situations.
  • Other specialities: Useful across multiple surgical and diagnostic fields due to its versatility.

Key Considerations Before Choosing the Right C-Arm Machine

Remember that the price of a C-arm machine will increase if you add reconditioning, delivery, installation, or a warranty. In laboratory environments, it’s common to pair diagnostic imaging systems with tools like PCR machines for comprehensive patient evaluation and treatment planning.

Whether you decide to buy a new, refurbished, or used system depends on the condition of the system and how close you are to the reseller. In respiratory care units, incorporating a HFNC machine alongside imaging systems ensures better patient outcomes through enhanced oxygen delivery.

C-arm Machine price factors

C-arm machine prices vary based on factors like brand, features, and specifications. Financing options are available to assist in acquiring this essential medical equipment. Devices such as a CBC machine are also integral in clinical diagnostics and are often financed together with imaging tools. Contact us to learn more about medical equipment finance solutions tailored to your needs..

C-arm Machine prices in India

S No.

Best C-Arm Machine Price

Price

1

Eray Smart Flat Panel Based Mobile C-Arm X-Ray System

₹ 28,00,000

2

BPL C Arm Machine

₹ 13,50,000

3

HF 9 Inch X 9 Inch C Arm FPD Digital C Arm Radiography Machine

₹ 18,97,500

4

Generator Capacity: 100 mA Machine Type: Portable (Mobile) High Frequency C Arm

₹ 15,00,000

5

Digital C-Arm Wide & Fast Mobile C-Arm

₹ 22,00,000


*The above charges are subject to change. Please refer to the product website to know real-time price.

Purchase C-arm machine online

Purchase your C-arm machine conveniently online. Explore a wide range of options suited to your medical practice needs. Additionally, inquire about our doctor loan options for financial assistance tailored to healthcare professionals. Clinics also often invest in an echocardiogram machine to complement imaging capabilities and support cardiovascular diagnostics.

Discover financing options for buying a C-arm machine

At Bajaj Finance, we offer flexible financing solutions tailored to your needs. Explore our medical equipment finance options today to invest in cutting-edge C-arm machines hassle-free. Take advantage of competitive medical equipment loan interest rate that make high-end diagnostic tools more accessible and cost-effective.

Conclusion

Investing in a C-arm machine is a significant step towards enhancing medical procedures and patient care. With our range of financing options, acquiring this essential equipment has never been easier. Explore our medical equipment loan solutions and take your practice to new heights. For more financial assistance, check out our doctor loan options.

Related Machines

Below are related machines:

Ventilator Machine

Dialysis Machine

BiPAP Machine

CPAP Machine

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Frequently asked questions

What is the basic principle of C-arm?
The basic principle of a C-arm machine involves emitting X-rays from one side, which pass through the body and are captured by an image intensifier on the other side. This produces real-time fluoroscopic images, allowing medical professionals to monitor procedures dynamically.
What is the difference between C-arm and fluoroscopy?
C-arm machines are mobile imaging devices equipped with a C-shaped arm, capable of capturing X-ray images from various angles. Fluoroscopy, on the other hand, refers to the imaging technique itself, involving continuous X-ray beam exposure to produce real-time images. The C-arm is a specific type of equipment used for fluoroscopy.
What is the wattage of a C-arm machine?

C-arm machines are available with different power options, ranging from 2.5 KW to 25 KW.

What are the applications of C-arm?

C-arm machines are widely used in various medical procedures requiring real-time imaging. These include orthopaedic surgeries, cardiac interventions, angiography, pain management, gastrointestinal studies, and procedures involving stent or catheter placement. Their mobility and live fluoroscopic imaging make them essential in both surgical and diagnostic environments.

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