Villa Arcovis DRF surgical C-arm: models and who they suit

About Villa Sistemi Medicali and the Arcovis family

Villa Sistemi Medicali was founded in 1958 by Alfio Villa and is headquartered in Buccinasco, Italy. It designs and manufactures diagnostic radiology systems, including remote-controlled R/F systems, general and digital radiography rooms, mobile X-ray units, mammography and surgical C-arms, and sells through an international distribution network.

The Arcovis line has two branches: the high-performance Arcovis DRF described here and the compact Arcovis DRF-C. Both are flat-panel systems; the DRF is the range for the most demanding procedures and the largest fields of view.

Arcovis DRF configurations

Arcovis DRF is offered in seven configurations that combine 21 x 21 cm or 30 x 30 cm flat-panel detectors with generators of 5, 20 or 25 kW. The flagship R30-25k IGZO uses an indium gallium zinc oxide panel and displays images at full resolution, without pixel binning, on a 31.5 inch 4K monitor.

As a rule of thumb, the 21 x 21 cm panels with a 5 kW generator suit general orthopaedic and trauma work, pain and urology; the 30 x 30 cm panels give a wider field for spine, pelvis and larger patients; and the 20 and 25 kW generators support vascular, interventional and long, demanding cases. Confirm each configuration's exact specification with the supplier.

When comparing configurations, look at two things together: the detector format and the generator. A large 30 x 30 cm panel with a low-power generator is not a vascular machine, and a powerful generator with a small panel does not improve the field of view. Ask the supplier to provide the exact configuration code in the quotation.

Handling, workflow and ergonomics

The balanced C-arm has handles along its full length, a directional handle with an integrated brake and motorised vertical movement. Angular motorisation and anti-collision sensors are optional. A 13 inch multi-touch control panel, a separate viewing trolley, NFC login and quick-access exam protocols streamline work in the OR.

These features address real daily problems: moving a heavy arc in a crowded theatre, avoiding the table and personnel, and starting a case quickly with the right protocol. For positioning techniques see our C-arm positioning guide.

In practice, a separate viewing trolley lets the surgeon and anaesthetist see the monitor from their own positions, while the control panel stays within reach of the radiographer. Check the cable length, trolley manoeuvrability and where the monitor will stand in your theatre layout before ordering.

Options: dose, laser, vascular and DICOM

Options include an integrated DAP meter, laser localisers, a vascular package with DSA and road mapping, and DICOM functions. A DAP meter and lasers support dose management, as described in our dose reduction guide; the vascular package extends the unit to peripheral interventional work.

Decide on options at the time of purchase, since retrofitting may be limited. List them in the tender and ask the supplier to confirm which are included in the quoted price.

• Integrated DAP meter
• Laser localisers
• Vascular package: DSA and road mapping
• DICOM functions
• Angular motorisation and anti-collision sensors

Which Arcovis DRF fits which OR

For a busy orthopaedic and trauma theatre, a 21 x 21 cm configuration with 5 kW may be enough, though the compact DRF-C may also be considered; compare in our Arcovis DRF-C article. For spine and pelvis, consider 30 x 30 cm panels, and for vascular or neurosurgical work look at the higher-power generators and the vascular package. For general purchasing criteria see the mobile C-arm buying guide.

Beckfinity's specialists can help you map your case mix to a configuration of the Arcovis DRF from Villa, and arrange a demonstration. Contact us to request a quotation.

Before the decision, ask for a demonstration in your own OR if possible, with the table you actually use. Verify the free space inside the arc with your largest patient position, the weight of the unit for floor loading and the turning radius in corridors and lifts.