Validated Simple Tip to Aid Eliminating Light Scatter in Viewing Overexposed Radiographs

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Overexposed radiographs can hinder the diagnostic performance of the examining physician. We describe a new, simple technique to aid eliminating light scatter in overexposed radiographs and examine its effect objectively. MATERIALS AND METHODS The new technique is simply manufacturing a monocular device out of another rolled up XR sheet and examining the object radiograph through it to mask the light scatter. Controlled environments were created to examine five different radiographs and register the light scatter reduction using a digital high resolution camera. RESULTS The light scatter reduction was noted to be statistically significant by using the new technique. (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS This technique is simple, readily available and avoids the need to repeat radiographs with the associated increased cost, chronological delays and potential radiological harm.