What is the effect of using a grid on patient dose?

Using a grid in radiographic imaging can increase patient dose due to the way grids function. Grids are designed to improve image quality by reducing scatter radiation, which can degrade the contrast of the image. However, in order to achieve the desired image quality, the use of a grid necessitates an increase in the amount of radiation exposure.

When a grid is employed, the primary radiation that contributes to the image is less effectively transmitted compared to scatter radiation. This means that the radiologic technologist often needs to increase the radiation dose to maintain the necessary exposure level to achieve a diagnostic-quality image. Hence, while grids enhance image quality by allowing for more accurate depiction of anatomical structures, they simultaneously result in increased radiation exposure to the patient.

In contrast, not utilizing a grid might lead to lower patient doses, but it would also compromise image quality due to increased scatter. Thus, the interplay between image quality, scatter reduction, and patient dose is critical when using grids in radiographic procedures.