What effect does increased collimation have on the amount of scatter reaching the image receptor (IR)?

Increased collimation reduces the amount of scatter radiation that reaches the image receptor (IR). Collimation is the process of limiting the size of the X-ray beam, which means that only the area of interest is exposed to radiation. By narrowing the beam, you minimize the area that can produce scatter radiation—scatter occurs when the primary beam interacts with the matter, like tissues or bones, and is deflected in various directions.

When collimation is increased, fewer tissues outside the area of interest are irradiated, leading to less scattering of X-rays that could otherwise reach the IR. This is crucial for improving image quality, as it enhances contrast and helps reduce the overall noise in the radiographic image, making the structures of interest clearer and more defined. Consequently, effective collimation plays a vital role in both image quality and patient safety by reducing unnecessary radiation exposure.