Final answer:
Digital fluoroscopy enhances medical imaging by allowing image subtraction for clearer visualization, providing superior dynamic range, and optimizing radiation doses for patient safety. It also offers higher image acquisition rates and can operate in progressive mode for better image clarity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Digital fluoroscopy offers a principal advantage over conventional fluoroscopy in that it allows for image enhancement techniques such as image subtraction. This is a method wherein real-time processing is used to improve visibility by removing superfluous structures from the images, which is incredibly useful in vascular imaging where blood vessels are highlighted by subtracting pre- and post-contrast images. Furthermore, digital systems have superior dynamic range, which allows for better visualization of various tissues within the same image.
Digital fluoroscopic systems can also more effectively control the radiation dose, as the use of radiation in medical diagnostics typically involves lower doses compared with the therapeutic uses of radiation, which are intentionally higher to treat diseases like cancer. The digital systems can optimize the dose based on the specific diagnostic need, thereby improving patient safety through minimized exposure.
Additionally, with advances in digital technology, these systems can offer benefits like higher image acquisition rates and the ability to operate in progressive mode, which provides clearer images by capturing one complete image at a time rather than interlacing. Hence, digital fluoroscopy has made significant strides in improving safety, image quality, and functionality in medical imaging.