Identification and effects of common errors and artifacts on the perceived quality of radiographs

Abstract

Results of this study suggested the technical variables proper exposure, proper positioning, absence of artifacts, and acquisition of all appropriate views were important for acquisition of sets of radiographs of high diagnostic quality. Identification of these errors and adjustment of radiographic technique to eliminate such errors would aid veterinarians in obtaining radiographs of high diagnostic quality and may reduce misinterpretation.

Common artefacts and pitfalls in equine computed and digital radiography and how to avoid them

“…Post acquisition processing and image adjustment allow the production of a visually acceptable radiograph over a large range of exposure values (Nuth et al . ) ( Fig ).…”

“…Additionally, a radiograph needs to be centred and collimated to the region of interest, be appropriately positioned, correctly exposed and free of artefacts (Nuth et al . ). An artefact is described as a portion of an image that masks or mimics a clinical feature, impairs the image quality or obscures abnormalities (Oestman et al .…”

“…Indeed, the lack of all required standard projections frequently results in a radiographic study being repeated or classified as suboptimal (Nuth et al . ). Standardised positioning and appropriate angulation have been widely reported in the radiology textbooks and the clinician should refer to these resources for further information.…”

“…Using either a CR or DR system this information is recorded in a digital format via the metadata associated with each image (Nuth et al . ). This can be principally achieved using newer DR systems by correctly inputting patient data, and the prudent use of a limb marker on the images.…”

“…In radiography, sharpness is seen as ability to define a crisp outline to the margins of anatomic structures and can be readily affected by motion, the size of the focal spot in the x-ray generator (the penumbra effect) or geometric magnification as a result of object to film distance. Additionally, a radiograph needs to be centred and collimated to the region of interest, be appropriately positioned, correctly exposed and free of artefacts (Nuth et al 2014). An artefact is described as a portion of an image that masks or mimics a clinical feature, impairs the image quality or obscures abnormalities (Oestman et al 1991;Willis et al 2004;Drost et al 2008).…”