Question

Identify which of the following will produce an increase in scatter radiation production:

1. use of lower kVp
2. use of smaller collimated field size
3. use of larger collimated field size
4. increase in amount of tissue compression being used

Answer 1

An increase in the amount of tissue compression being used can lead to an increase in scatter radiation production.

Step-by-step explanation:

Scatter radiation occurs when x-ray photons deviate from their original path after passing through tissue. An increase in the amount of tissue compression being used can lead to an increase in scatter radiation production. When tissue is compressed, more x-ray photons are scattered, resulting in higher scatter radiation levels.

For example, in mammography, the breast is compressed to obtain clearer images. However, this compression can also cause an increase in scatter radiation. As the breast is compressed, more tissue is irradiated, leading to a higher likelihood of scatter radiation.

Overall, an increase in the amount of tissue compression being used can lead to an increase in scatter radiation production, which can affect the clarity of the image and pose potential health risks.