kVp (kilovoltage peak) refers to the maximum voltage applied to the X-ray tube. It controls the energy and penetrating power of the X-ray beam, affecting image contrast and quality. Higher kVp results in a higher energy beam that penetrates tissues more effectively.
A collimator is a device used to limit the size of the X-ray beam to the area of interest, reducing unnecessary radiation exposure to the surrounding tissues and improving image quality.
In digital radiography, photostimulable phosphor plates are used to capture the X-ray image. When exposed to X-rays, these plates store energy, which is later released as visible light when stimulated, creating the digital image.
Proper machine calibration ensures optimal image quality and prevents errors. Poor image quality can arise from incorrect exposure settings, patient movement, or suboptimal receptor quality, but calibration itself typically resolves such issues.
The "mA" (milliampere) setting controls the number of electrons flowing through the X-ray tube, which determines the quantity of X-rays produced. A higher mA increases the radiation dose, which is important for image clarity and exposure time.
