Fluoroscopy

The University of Canterbury (UC) is seeking to acquire a new fluoroscopy system for the UC Rose Centre for Stroke Recovery and Research to support clinical assessment, research, teaching, and advanced clinical training activities. The fluoroscopy system will be used to undertake Videofluoroscopic Swallowing Studies (VFSS), which are internationally recognised as the gold-standard assessment for swallowing disorders. The system enables real-time visualisation of swallowing biomechanics and supports specialist assessment of swallowing function for both adult and paediatric populations. The replacement of the existing fluoroscopy unit is required because the current system is over ten years old and no longer adequately meets the Centre’s clinical, research, and teaching requirements. Key limitations include restricted recording duration, inefficient image capture and processing workflows, limited interoperability, and reduced capability to support contemporary VFSS protocols. This procurement represents a strategic investment in UC’s specialist clinical and research infrastructure. The new system will restore and enhance in-house VFSS capability, reduce reliance on external providers, improve workflow efficiency, support radiation dose management, and strengthen the Centre’s ability to deliver specialist swallowing assessments. The system will also support UC’s research excellence by enabling advanced swallowing research, postgraduate research projects, interdisciplinary collaboration, and translational research that directly informs clinical practice. In addition, it will enhance undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, clinical training, and professional development activities for future clinicians, researchers, and healthcare professionals. The primary objective of this procurement is to acquire a fit-for-purpose fluoroscopy solution capable of delivering contemporary imaging performance, reliable recording and playback functionality, secure data management, and long-term technical support. The solution must support current VFSS requirements while providing a sustainable platform or future interoperability, research collaboration, and service development.