Evaluation of cassette performance: physical factors affecting patient exposure and image contrast

Radiology. 1983 Mar;146(3):801-6. doi: 10.1148/radiology.146.3.6828696.

Abstract

Physical properties of four radiographic cassettes were investigated in combination with various screen/film systems. These properties included (a) transmittance of monoenergetic x rays over 14-96 keV and comparison with predictions based on attenuation coefficients; (b) relative patient exposure from 60 to 120 kV (from phantom measurements) and correlation with predictions based on measured transmittance as well as average energies and angles of incident radiation; and (c) amounts of scatter from various cassette materials and comparison with Monte Carlo calculations. The results provide a model of performance based on quantitation of cassette effects on system speed and image contrast. Carbon-fiber cassettes required the lowest patient exposure, produced the least scatter, and (in low-scatter situations) were capable of increased image contrast.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aluminum
  • Carbon
  • Carbon Fiber
  • Humans
  • Plastics
  • Polycarboxylate Cement
  • Radiation Dosage
  • Radiography / instrumentation*
  • Scattering, Radiation
  • X-Ray Film

Substances

  • Carbon Fiber
  • Plastics
  • Polycarboxylate Cement
  • polycarbonate
  • Carbon
  • bakelite
  • Aluminum