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Exposure Variability and Image Quality in Computed Radiography

Purpose To evaluate the effect of a wide range of exposure techniques on the overall quality of the computed radiography (CR) image.

Methods A Fuji FCR 1 Shot QC Phantom was exposed to mAs values ranging from 1 to 125, yielding 8 exposure groups. Five CR imaging plates were exposed, processed and printed for each exposure group. Image quality was evaluated by measuring the optical density, density differences and number of line pairs visualized.

Results The findings indicate that variability in radiation exposure to the CR imaging plate does not adversely affect the quality of the digital image. Optical density and low-density differences were stable throughout the wide range of exposures. Radiographic contrast appeared to decrease for the high-density differences when exposed to higher-than-needed exposures, and resolution appeared to be compromised at extreme low-radiation exposures.

Conclusion The results of this experimental study are consistent with the digital imaging literature in that a radiation exposure technique above or below the optimum level will produce a diagnostic-quality image. Radiographers must become more knowledgeable about digital imaging systems so they can produce quality images with the least amount of exposure to their patients.