The use of a removable grid design in digital radiography (DR) with flat-panel detectors serves what purpose?

 Digital Radiography (DR), abbreviated as DR, is a commonly used imaging technique in radiology departments, primarily for the preliminary diagnosis of diseases in the musculoskeletal system, chest, heart, respiratory system, and digestive system. It is suitable for imaging needs across various parts of the body such as the chest, abdomen, head, and limbs. Compared to traditional film-based examinations, DR reduces radiation exposure to the body, shortens examination times, and improves image quality.

Components of Digital Radiography (DR):

Structurally, DR comprises components such as an X-ray high-voltage generator, X-ray tube, flat-panel detector, gantry, and image processing system.

Advantages of Digital Radiography (DR):

DR allows direct data acquisition during imaging. X-rays pass through the body and project onto the detector, which converts the image information into digital data for synchronous transmission. Subsequently, software processes the images.

The grid is a common component in DR. After X-rays pass through the body, scattered rays of longer wavelength and undefined direction, known as secondary radiation, are produced. The greater the energy of the primary X-rays and the thickness of the body part being penetrated, the more scattered radiation is generated. Scattered radiation also has fluorescent and photographic effects, which can reduce image contrast and clarity.

To mitigate the adverse effects of scattered radiation during imaging, grids are used. Grids help filter scattered radiation, reduce fogging, improve contrast, and enhance image clarity and sharpness.

So, what is the purpose of using a removable grid design in Digital Radiography (DR)? Why remove the grid?

Although grids can filter scattered radiation, they also absorb some useful rays, resulting in increased radiation dose. Thicker body parts with more scattered radiation require grids. However, in areas such as the trunk of children or limbs of adults, where scattered radiation is minimal, removing the grid does not significantly affect image quality but can greatly reduce radiation dose.

Considering this, many manufacturers employ a removable grid design in DR equipment. For instance, Perlove Medical designs its DR systems with removable grids to address clinical needs. This allows grids to be freely removed based on clinical requirements, providing more personalized care for pediatric or low-dose examinations. Combined with Dose Area Product (DAP) monitoring systems, which display the cumulative radiation dose absorbed during a single examination, it facilitates radiation risk control and enhances patient care.

DAP refers to the product of the cumulative radiation dose and the irradiated area, indicating the total number of radiation received by the body. Radiation exposure to medical personnel results from secondary radiation generated when the primary X-ray beam passes through the patient. Therefore, the radiation dose received by medical personnel is closely related to the patient’s DAP. The integration of DAP radiation dose monitoring systems allows real-time display of dose intensity during imaging, enabling doctors to manage radiation exposure effectively and provide enhanced health care for patients.

As a leading domestic manufacturer of medical imaging equipment, Perlove Medical prioritizes high-quality imaging while significantly reducing X-ray radiation dose in product research, development, and production. Through technological innovation and optimized design, Perlove Medical’s DR systems offer safer low-dose management solutions for medical professionals and patients alike.