LECTURE 7 ~~~~~~~ NOTES

X-Ray Image Accuracy

• To create accurate X-ray images, the object should be as close as possible to the detector and the beams should be parallel.
• This minimizes distortion.

Image Distortion Causes

• Foreshortening: Occurs when the X-ray beam is angled too steeply relative to the tooth and film. This makes the image appear shorter than the actual object. This happens when the X-ray source is too close to the object in the vertical plane.

• Elongation: Occurs when the X-ray beam is not angled steeply enough. The image appears longer than the actual object. Insufficient vertical angulation causes the X-ray source to be too far from the object in the vertical plane.

• Distortion: Results from the X-ray beam not being properly aligned perpendicular to the tooth and film. This distorts the image, potentially shortening some parts and elongating others, leading to an inaccurate representation of the object's shape.

Minimizing Distortion

• The object should be as close as possible to the image receptor to minimize magnification and maximize sharpness.
• The source to object distance should be maximized to ensure parallel X-ray beams, which reduce distortion.
• The X-ray source should be as far from the detector as possible, while maintaining parallel beams.
• The object should be as close to the detector as possible to reduce the effect of beam divergence.

Explore the key concepts of X-ray image accuracy, including the effects of foreshortening, elongation, and overall image distortion. This quiz will help you understand the best practices for ensuring accurate X-ray representations. Learn how to minimize distortion for better diagnosis and analysis.