Tips and tricks for radiograph production

Introduction

Radiographs are made by the transmission of x-rays through the anatomic structure of interest, to be harvested by an x-ray detector. Images are based on tissue density and its resultant ability to attenuate the x-ray beam. Radiography is a projection technique, meaning that the 3-dimensional anatomy is superimposed upon itself in the resultant image. Image quality is highly user-dependent in radiograph production. Poor quality images result in missed, delayed and overdiagnosis.

Image acquisition

The first step in a quality diagnostic imaging examination is careful consideration of the clinical case, history, physical examination findings, and the expected or differential diagnoses.

Patient preparation

Appropriate patient preparation will aid in the acquisition of the highest quality examination possible. Adequate handling, sedation, restraint and shoe removal should be considered. […]