What does the total filtration in a radiographic system include?

Total filtration in a radiographic system is defined as the sum of all filtration used to reduce patient exposure to unnecessary radiation by attenuating low-energy X-ray photons that do not contribute to useful imaging. It specifically includes both inherent filtration and added filtration.

Inherent filtration refers to the filtration that is built into the radiographic unit itself. This includes the glass or metal enclosure of the X-ray tube, the window of the tube, and any materials found within the beam path that naturally absorb and scatter lower energy photons.

Added filtration, on the other hand, refers to additional materials that are deliberately placed into the path of the X-rays to absorb more low-energy photons. This can include aluminum sheets or other materials installed in or around the X-ray tube housing.

Combining both of these types of filtration provides the total filtration, which plays a significant role in enhancing image quality while minimizing radiation exposure to patients and healthcare providers. This comprehensive understanding of total filtration is crucial for ensuring safe and effective radiographic practices.