xray errors

Recognition of Retake Errors

  • Importance of recognizing errors during retakes

  • Objective: Minimize the occurrence of retakes

Receptor Exposure Errors

  • Types of Receptor Exposure Errors:

    • Unexposed

    • Overexposed

    • Underexposed

Understanding Unexposed Errors

  • Definitions:

    • Sensor: Can show unexposed error when unplugged or not ready.

    • PSP (Phosphor Storage Plates): Cannot show unexposed errors since they rely on exposure to x-rays.

  • Common Causes:

    • Sensor may not be plugged in.

    • Machine not powered on.

    • User error, such as continually pushing the button without result.

Correcting Exposures

  • Overexposed Errors:

    • Signs: Image appears dark or high in density.

    • Settings to Check:

    • Exposure Time: May be too high

    • KVP (Kilovolt Peak): May be excessive

  • How to Fix:

    • Adjust exposure settings based on initial image observation.

  • Underexposed Errors:

    • Signs: Image appears too light.

    • Settings to Check:

    • KVP, MA (Milliampere), Exposure Time may be too low

    • Distance from the sensor affects image quality.

    • Patient's thickness (e.g., cheek or tissue thickness) can impact the exposure.

  • How to Fix:

    • Increase exposure settings, get closer to the patient.

Periapical Technique Errors

  • Common Issues:

    • Receptor Placement Errors

    • Angulation Issues (Horizontal and Vertical)

  • Consequences of Improper Technique:

    • Cutting off apex (apical portion of the tooth)

    • Drop film issues (image appearing tipped)

Receptor Placement Problems

  • Sensor must be properly lined up to show specific teeth clearly.

    • Angulation Issues:

    • Horizontal angulation affects overlapping of teeth in images.

    • Vertical angulation affects elongation or foreshortening of teeth.

  • Alignment Notes:

    • Ensure PID (Position Indicating Device) is correctly centered.

Correction Measures for Technique Errors

  • Focusing on Patient Positioning and Sensor Fixation:

    • Adjust patient’s head alignment for better sensor positioning.

    • Maintain mid-sagittal plane in alignment.

    • Use prompts for patients to avoid movement during exposure.

  • Example Metaphor for Technique:

    • "If you think of your PID as a camera aiming at a subject, ensure that you're adjusted correctly to capture the entire frame without cutting corners or angles."

Angulation Problems

  • Misalignment examples at play:

    • Vertical Errors: Foreshortening or elongation of teeth due to inadequate angling.

    • Horizontal Errors: Overlapping contacts.

  • Resulting Image Quality: Images should present clear, defined tooth structures without distortion.

Incorporating Confidence in Practice

  • Emphasize checking images post-capture for necessary adjustments.

  • Encourage direct dialogue with patients for optimal image capture experiences.

Review of Errors and Solutions

  • Recap of common imaging techniques and the necessary steps to correct common errors.

    • Importance of understanding equipment settings and ensuring proper machine setup before patient interaction.

    • Analyze patient anatomy for effective image capturing without cutting essential structures off.

    • Communication and patient management are essential for efficient practice and quality imaging outcomes.

Patient Cooperation Strategies

  • Strategies to manage patient anxiety and involuntary movements.

  • Emphasize the need to instruct patients clearly about remaining still during the imaging process to avoid multiple retakes.