Digital Radiography
Chapter 22
History of Digital Radiography
Slower process of conversion because no
pressing need to convert to digital radiography.
Requires a large amount of digital data.
Overview
Primary difference is that digital radiographs are
electronically captured, recorded and viewed at a
computer terminal which replaces the radiographic film
and the view box.
Screen and cassette is replaced by a reusable image
receptor or detector.
Receptor receives x-rays and exposes a digital plate that
transforms light to an electrical image.
Hardware is essentially same (X-ray tube, stand, etc).
Once digital radiographic image is made, it is
transferred to a dedicated digital radiography
computer for “image processing”.
Image can then be adjusted, rotated, etc.
Limitations of Conventional Screen-
film Radiography
Limitations:
Require fairly narrow exposure factors to produce a
diagnostic quality radiograph.
Radiographic image can not be adjusted once it is
made.
Requires physical handling and storage.
Advantages of Digital Radiography
The image
Image can be adjusted after exposure.
Need for re-takes are minimized.
Computer manipulation of the digital image is
possible.
Able to see soft tissue and bony detail in single
image.
Studies show that digital films are equal or better
than traditional film for evaluating most body parts.
Time
Reduces time takes to produce image.
Reduces time taken in re-takes.
Reduces processing time.
Time to correctly label and store.
Image storage and Transport
Stored in computer and not physically stored in
clinic.
Quick access to digital image.
Ease of transfer of image.
Cost Savings and Increasing Profits
Overall initial cost is higher, but due to saving time
and materials, actually will be cheaper in the long
term.
Digital improves quality of imaging studies, which
leads to better diagnosis.
Follow-up Radiography
Comparison to previous radiographs is easier.
Not worried about lost or misplaced radiographs.
Disadvantages of Digital
Radiography
Training and Learning Curve
Must learn machinery, technology and positioning.
Must still adhere to good technique for acquiring
images.
Equipment cost
Initial cost is high compared with traditional
radiography.
Other technology costs associated with digital
radiology (computers, servers, etc).
Image Management Software and
Image Processing
Some digital radiology machines have pre-set
selections based on species, body part of
interest, and radiographic view to further
identify the study type.
Images will be sent to workstation or printed on
transparent film for viewing.
Analog-to-Digital Radiographic
Signal Conversion
Conventional radiograph is produced by a series
of analog signals, from x-ray formation and
interaction with the patient, to capture of x-rays
by the intensifying screen, which converts to
light which produces image on the film.
Digital x-ray converts the analog signal of the
light to a digital signal. Converts the waves to a
digital signal.
Digital Computers
Digital waveform is represented numerically by
binary numbers.
Computer memory and storage consist of bits
(binary digits).
Eight bits become one byte.
Pixels and Image Matrix
X-ray beam is converted into a electronic form
that is digitized and converted to squares of
information known as pixels.
The smaller the pixel, the better the image
quality.
Viewing Digital Images
Display Monitors
Consideration given to size and type
Film and Paper
Should be printed on high-quality, transparent laser
film and can be viewed on viewbox.
Digital Receptors Available in
Veterinary Medicine
Computed Radiography (CR)
Similar to traditional radiography where CR cassette is
exposed, opened and image is removed from CR plate, then
plate is erased and returned to cassette for reuse.
Flat Panel Detectors
Detectors in a panel that is hard wired to a computer.
Charged Coupled Device (CCD)
Small flat panel that is capable of producing images from
visible light.
Digital Artifacts
Image plate artifacts
Cracks and bends in plates
Image processing artifacts
Halo effects, computer artifacts
