An In-Depth Study Of Fluoroscopic Spot Film Systems

In this paper, we will report on a detailed study of fluoroscopic spot film systems and the methodology we have developed for achieving optimal clinical image quality at minimum patient exposure. In addition to those quantities that affect the image quality in routine radiography, the spot film image is dependent upon the gain and resolution ability of the image intensifier, the functioning of the automatic exposure timing system, and the imaging optics of the spot film camera. Hence, a detailed examination of these systems in new equipment, and an on-going program to monitor both the quality of the images produced and the condition of the imaging system components is required. We will report on the procedure we have developed for the complete examination of spot film imaging equipment and the means for assuring their optimal performance. Clinical films made on a series image intensifiers will be compared to the physical imaging properties and patient dose rates of these systems. A simple method for the daily check of spot film image quality will be presented. The wide variation in the imaging ability of new spot film systems will also be discussed.© (1977) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.