Optimization of X-ray conditions for full spine X-ray examinations in slot-scan digital radiography

The purpose of this study was to optimize X-ray conditions for full spine X-ray examinations in slot-scan digital radiography (SSDR). Follow-up of spinal deformities, such as scoliosis, typically involves many radiographs of the patient throughout childhood and adolescence. The Radiation doses for the full spine X-ray examination should be minimized. Recently, SSDR has been introduced for full spine as well as lower extremity examinations. This system utilizes slot scanning geometry to acquire the radiographic images. X-ray energy characteristics of direct amorphous Selenium (a-Se) digital fluoroscopy and short time X-ray tube loads of this system were investigated. Orthopedists evaluated the irradiation time for full spine radiographs in various conditions using an observer study. Patient doses were measured with radiophotoluminescence glass dosimeters, which were implanted in various tissue and organ positions within an anthropomorphic phantom. In the optimization of conditions for SSDR, patient doses are reduced by approximately 60% compared to default setting.