Radiographic Exposure Technique (2024)

Introduction

In Chapter 6, variables that affect both the quantity and quality of the x-ray beam are presented. Milliamperage and time affect the quantity of radiation produced and kilovoltage affects both the quantity and quality. Chapter 9 emphasizes that a good-quality radiographic image accurately represents the anatomic area of interest. The characteristics evaluated for image quality are density or brightness, contrast, recorded detail or spatial resolution, distortion, and noise. This chapter focuses on radiographic exposure techniques and the use of accessory devices, and their effect on the radiation reaching the image receptor (IR) and the image produced. Radiographers have the responsibility of selecting the combination of exposure factors to produce a quality image. Knowledge of how these factors affect the image individually and in combination assists the radiographer to produce a radiographic image with the amount of information desired for diagnostic interpretation.

Because various types of IRs respond differently to the radiation exiting the patient (remnant), these differences are noted throughout this chapter. However, regardless of the type of IR, the patient should be exposed to the least amount of radiation necessary to produce a diagnostic-quality radiograph. This chapter discusses all of the primary and secondary factors and their effects on the radiation reaching the IR.