MEDRADSC 2AA3 - Lecture 2.2 - How to Read an X-Ray

what are the two main factors affecting the emission of x-rays?

tube design factors and prime factors controlled by the MRT

what are the three prime factors affecting emission of x-rays, which are controlled by the MRT?

mAs, kVp and d

what prime factor controls the quantity of photons produced?

mAs

what prime factor controls the quality (and has a little effect on quantity) of photons produced?

kVp

in addition to kVp, _______ can affect the penetrating ability of x-rays. This can be classified as inherent or added.

filtration

how is an x-ray image always displayed when looking at it from a modality workstation or radiologist workstation?

you view the radiograph as if the patient is standing in front of you in anatomic position (with exceptions)

what is the protocols for the exceptions to the general rule of viewing a radiograph?

when viewing limbs, we use 'hanging protocols', for example, typically hands-forearm is marked fingers up and elbow-humerus are marked humerus up

what is the marker protocol for a patient who is lateral?

the marker indicates the side which is closest to the IR