Post-Processing of Digital Radiographs in the Practice of Radiologist

Abstract

The purpose: analysis of the use by radiologists techniques of post-processing of digital radiographs and the development of practical recommendations on their application.

Materials and methods. The technique of post-processing was taken for analysis: negative/positive; filters/optimization of dynamic range; the intensification of the contours and smoothing; image magnification; level/window width densities, and gamma correction. Compiled questionnaire, which the doctor and the radiologist had to answer the questions of how often he uses a particular technique of digital image processing; which, in some cases, the study of what organs he uses post-processing? In total, we analyzed 18 questionnaires and their own experience in digital x-ray machines since 2003.

Results. On the basis of interviews and our own experience, the author recommends that you always use the techniques of post-processing x-ray images, starting with the optimization of the dynamic range / filter, which greatly improves the quality of the picture.

Conclusions. 1. Doctors radiologists in the majority of cases (83%) use the methods of post-processing to analyse digital radiographs. 

2. Additional option of post-processing are used most of the time (90–100%), this level and the window width, the intensification of the contours increase.
3. Command path smoothing is applied in 1/3 cases (33%).
4. Rarely used to optimize dynamic range and FonEqualize.
5. Understanding all of the options post-processing of digital radiographs and their active use in practice of the radiologist, will improve the accuracy of x-ray, to avoid repeated shots, and as a consequence, to reduce the radiation dose of the patient.
6. Recommended: start post-processing images with optimal dynamic range/filter; for detail is necessary – to change the level/window width, zoom in, sharpen the contours.