Digital Radiography (DR) and Image Quality

Digital Radiography (DR) has been used to describe a digital x-ray imaging system that reads the transmitted x-ray signal immediately after exposure with the detector (commonly Flat Panel Detectors) in place. Cassetteless operation indicates the ability to acquire the x-ray signal and, without subsequent intervention, produce an image at a local workstation for review and enhancement.

DR eliminates the handling and distribution of x-ray images while reducing the number of image retakes due to under- or over-exposure.DR is known for producing high resolution images. However, there are several factors that affect x-ray image quality.

  • Brightness – intensity of light representing individual pixels in an image
  • Contrast – differences in brightness between light and dark areas of image
  • Subject contrast – is the ratio of the radiation intensities in different parts of an image due to the quality of the subject being imaged
  • Resolution – recorded sharpness of structures on image
  • Spatial resolution – how far apart two objects must be in order to be seen as separate details in the image
  • Distortion – misrepresentation of object size or shape
  • Exposure index – a numeric value that is representative of the exposure the image receptor received
  • Noise – random disturbance in image brightness that obscures image quality

The goal of DR should be aimed at achieving optimal image quality with the least radiation dose to patients. Do not hesitate to switch to a digital x-ray solution. It will improve your ability to diagnose, retain patients, and make a small, yet positive impact on the environment—all while improving your image quality.

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