Footswitches and hand controls in medical image capture applications

Medical imaging is a critical component of modern healthcare, enabling accurate diagnosis and treatment across various specialties. In these settings, footswitches and hand controls play a role in ensuring efficient and precise operation of imaging equipment. From radiology and ultrasound to endoscopy and surgical imaging, these control solutions enhance workflow, allowing healthcare professionals to focus on patient care while seamlessly capturing high-quality images.

Medical imaging is a critical component of modern healthcare, enabling accurate diagnosis and treatment across various specialties. In these settings, footswitches and hand controls play a role in ensuring efficient and precise operation of imaging equipment. From radiology and ultrasound to endoscopy and surgical imaging, these control solutions enhance workflow, allowing healthcare professionals to focus on patient care while seamlessly capturing high-quality images.

Footswitch technology in modern medical imaging

Footswitches are widely used in medical imaging due to their hands-free operation, which is especially valuable in sterile environments. They allow clinicians to control imaging equipment without touching surfaces, reducing the risk of contamination while maintaining workflow efficiency.

Common uses of footswitches include:

1. Image capture & recording – Footswitches allow users to capture still images or start/stop video recording without interrupting the procedure.
2. Zoom & focus control – In applications like surgical microscopy, foot pedals adjust magnification and focus without needing manual intervention.
3. Navigation & workflow control – Footswitches enable users to scroll through images in PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems) without taking their hands off sterile instruments.
4. Radiology & fluoroscopy activation – Used to trigger X-ray exposure or control image sequencing in fluoroscopic procedures.

The type of footswitch solutions in use include:

Multi-pedal footswitches with multiple programmable pedals for complex imaging tasks.

Bluetooth footswitches - ideal for applications where cable management is a concern.

USB footswitches - standard, reliable and widely compatible footswitches for general medical imaging use.

Standard electrical pedals - traditional footswitches that can be adapted using a dongle to convert them to USB.

Footswitches in Herga Technology’s range can be customised to suit specific application needs, including special labelling and connectors.

Hand controls in medical imaging applications

Hand controls enable direct manipulation of imaging equipment, offering precision and a broader range of functions. They are commonly used on portable ultrasound machines and C-arm systems for quick adjustments to essential settings. In digital radiography, they facilitate precise shutter and exposure control to allow precise timing of image capture. They are intuitive for fine adjustments and complex workflows and can be customised with programmable buttons. 

Herga Technology’s 6310 Electric Hand Control has a coiled cable, providing extended reach without excessive slack allowing operators to move around equipment without disconnecting or repositioning the hand control.

Both footswitches and hand controls are essential tools in medical imaging, allowing professionals to work with greater precision, efficiency and ease. As medical imaging continues to evolve, customised control solutions can further improve usability and integration.

Would you like to explore specific product recommendations for your imaging system? Contact us to learn more!