While using a digital radiography system, suppose a radiographer uses exposure factors of 10 mAs and 70 kVp with an 8:1 grid for an AP shoulder radiograph with acceptable anatomical part penetration and detector element (DEL) exposure. If the radiographer desires to increase scatter absorption using a 12:1 grid, what new exposure factors should be used to maintain the same DEL exposure

b. 12.5 mAs, 70 kVp

Explanation:

The given parameter are;

The initial exposure factors := 10 mAs and 70 kVp

The initial Grid Ratio, G.R.₁ = 8:1

The Grid Ratio with which the radiographer desires to increase the scatter absorption, G.R.₂  = 12:1

Given that the lead content in the 12:1 grid, is higher than the lead content in 8:1 grid and that 12:1 grid needs more mAs to compensate, and provides a higher image contrast, the amount of extra mAs is given by the Grid Conversion Factors, GCF, as follows;

The GCF for G.R. 8:1 = 4

The GCF for G.R. 12:1 = 5

Therefore, given that the mAs used by the radiographer for 8:1 Grid Ratio is 10 mAs, the mAs required for a G.R. of 12:1 in order to maintain the same exposure is given as follows;

mAs for G.R. of 12:1 = 10 mAs × 5/4 = 12.5 mAs

Therefore the new exposure factors are;

12.5 mAs, 70 kVp

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