CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What is the result of using a grid in radiography?

1. Increased radiation exposure

2. Improved film development

3. Better image contrast

4. Reduced image resolution

The correct answer is: Better image contrast

Using a grid in radiography primarily results in improved image contrast. Grids are designed to absorb scattered radiation that commonly occurs when x-rays pass through thicker body structures. This scattered radiation can degrade the quality of an image by reducing the overall contrast, making it harder to distinguish between different tissues or abnormalities. By incorporating a grid, only the primary radiation that contributes to the formation of a clear image is allowed to reach the image receptor, while the unwanted scatter is reduced. This selective filtering improves the contrast of the radiographic image, making features more distinguishable and enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Regarding other possibilities: while increased radiation exposure can occur when using a grid due to the need for a higher dose to compensate for the attenuation of primary radiation, this is not the primary purpose of the grid. Film development improvement relates to processing techniques rather than the physical effects of using a grid. Lastly, reduced image resolution is not a direct result of grid use; instead, the resolution can remain stable or vary based on other factors like the imaging system and technique quality.