Generators and Filtration in X-Ray Production

A set of 50 flashcards covering key concepts of generators and filtration in x-ray production and imaging.

What happens to the effective average kVp when using a more efficient x-ray generator?

It increases.

How does the use of a three-phase generator affect mAs?

It can cut mAs in half compared to a single-phase generator.

What does an efficient generator help to reduce in x-ray exposure?

Exposure time and motion artifact.

What is the purpose of beam filtration in x-ray production?

To capture long wavelength photons and reduce dose to the patient.

What is a common material used for x-ray filtration?

Aluminum (Al).

How does filtration affect radiation intensity and energy?

Radiation intensity decreases while average energy increases.

What are the two types of filtration in x-ray tubes?

Inherent and added filtration.

What constitutes inherent filtration?

Components of the x-ray tube and housing such as glass, collimator parts, and oil.

What is added filtration made of?

Sheets of aluminum or copper placed between the tube and the collimator.

What is the Half Value Layer (HVL)?

The amount of filtration needed to reduce radiation intensity by half.

Why is the Half Value Layer important?

It measures the penetrability of the radiation beam.

What does compensating filtration do?

Balances intensity at the image receptor in areas with varying tissue mass.

How thick can compensating filters be?

Up to 12 mm.

What problem does compensating filtration address in imaging?

Uneven exposure in areas of varying thickness.

What is unique about battery-operated mobile units compared to stationary units?

They utilize DC batteries and generally require less kVp.

What process do battery-operated mobile units undergo with current?

DC current is converted to AC and back to DC.

Why are portable examination kVp settings lower?

Because mobile units are more efficient than stationary units.

What does computer software do in regard to image brightness?

It targets specific portions of an image for brightness correction.

What is the effect of using a wedge filter on a radiograph?

It evens out density throughout areas with varying thickness.

What happens to weak photons during beam hardening?

They are removed to harden the beam.

Why is filtration within the ALARA concept significant?

It minimizes patient dose while maximizing image quality.

How can the intensity at the image receptor be affected by generator changes?

It will vary, but spatial resolution remains unchanged.

What does increased penetration from a generator mean for the x-ray beam?

It can effectively penetrate denser body parts.

What happens to the quality of x-ray images when different generators are utilized?

Techniques can vary significantly across departments.

What is a potential downside of increasing generator power?

Potential for increased patient exposure if not managed properly.

What type of filtration usually totals about 1.5 mm of aluminum?

Inherent filtration.

Why must Half Value Layers be adhered to during examinations?

They are published standards that ensure safety and efficacy.

What is the role of compensating filters in imaging protocols?

To ensure consistent exposure across varying anatomic thickness.

What constitutes the maximum thickness for most compensating filters used?

Approximately 12 mm.

What does increased average energy of the x-ray beam indicate?

Higher quality, more penetrating x-rays.

In what scenario would a wedge filter be used?

When imaging body parts with rapid changes in tissue mass, like the foot.

What is a constant potential generator (CPG)?

A type of generator used in mobile units that utilizes DC power.

How do modern imaging systems correct for brightness?

By utilizing software to adjust density in underexposed areas.

What change occurs in the image receptor when using effective generators?

Increase in image clarity and reduction of motion artifacts.

What is essential to monitor on mobile units regularly?

Battery performance and kVp settings.

What do compensating filters help to achieve in radiographs?

Balanced density, preventing areas from appearing too dark or too light.

What indicates that filtration has worked effectively in an x-ray tube?

A reduction in weaker x-ray photons.

Why is aluminum often chosen for x-ray filtration?

It's effective in filtering out low-energy radiation.

How can generator efficiency lead to improved patient outcomes?

By reducing exposure time and improving image quality.