Digital Radiographic Image Acquisition and Processing

Digital Radiographic Image Acquisition and Processing

• Digital radiographic image acquisition and processing refers to the different ways of acquiring and processing digital radiographic images.

Photostimulable Phosphor (PSP) Systems

• PSP systems are a method of acquiring and processing digital radiographic images.
• PSP systems can be either cassette-based or cassette-less in design.

Key Topics in PSP Technology

• Technical factors
• Equipment selection
• Exposure indicators
• Image data recognition
• Artifacts

Radiographic vs. Other Digital Modalities

• Radiographic refers to general X-ray procedures, distinct from other digital modalities such as:
  • Computed Tomography (CT)
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  • Ultrasound (US)

PSP Technology Basics

• PSP technology stores an image formed by incident X-ray photon excitation of phosphors on an imaging plate.
• The imaging plate takes the place of radiographic film.
• During the reading process, the phosphor releases the stored light and converts it into an electrical signal, which is then digitized.

Cassette-Based PSP Systems

• The cassette is a lightproof container that protects the imaging plate from light and handling.
• The cassette contains:
  • A durable, lightweight plastic material
  • A thin sheet of aluminum or lead that absorbs backscatter X-ray photons
  • An antistatic material (usually felt) to protect against static electricity buildup, dust collection, and mechanical damage to the plate

Imaging Plate Construction

• The imaging plate consists of several layers:
  • Protective layer
  • Phosphor layer (or active layer)
  • Reflective layer
  • Conductive layer
  • Color layer (in newer plates)
  • Support layer
  • Backing layer

Cassette-Based PSP System Features

• A window with a barcode label or barcode sticker on the cassette allows the technologist to match the image information with the patient-identifying barcode on the examination request.