Radiology- digital imaging terms
Algorithms - ANS Highly complex mathematical formulas that are systematically applied to a
data set of digital processing
Bit depth - ANS Representative of the number of shades of gray that can be demonstrated by
each pixel. Bit depth is determined by the manufacturer and is based on the imaging procedures
for which the equipment is required.
Central ray(CR) - ANS The center point of the x-ray beam ( point of least distortion of projected
image)
Charged couple device (CCD) - ANS A method of capturing visible light and converting it into
an electrical signal for digital imaging systems. In radiography, a CCD device requires the use of
a scintillator to convert the x ray photons exiting the patient into visible light. CCD IMAGING
SYSTEMS ARE CASSETTE-less in design.
Contrast - ANS The density difference on adjacent areas of a radiographic image.
Contrast resolution - ANS The ability of an imaging system to distinguish between similar
tissues.
Digital archive - ANS A digital storage an image management system; in essence, a
sophisticated computer system for storage of patient files and images.
Display matrix - ANS Series of "boxes" that give form to the image
Display pixel size - ANS Pixel size of the monitor, related to the display matrix
Edge enhancement - ANS The application of specific image processing that alters pixel values
in the image to make the edges of structures appear more prominent compared with images
with less or no change when edge enhancement is applied
Equalization - ANS The application of specific image processing that alters the pixel values
across the image to present a more uniform image appearance. The pixel values representing
low brightness are made brighter, and pixel values with high brightness are made to appear less
bright.
Exposure indicator - ANS A numeric value that is represntative of the exposure the image
receptor recieved in digital radiography
Exposure latitude - ANS Range of exposure intensities that will produce an acceptable image
Algorithms - ANS Highly complex mathematical formulas that are systematically applied to a
data set of digital processing
Bit depth - ANS Representative of the number of shades of gray that can be demonstrated by
each pixel. Bit depth is determined by the manufacturer and is based on the imaging procedures
for which the equipment is required.
Central ray(CR) - ANS The center point of the x-ray beam ( point of least distortion of projected
image)
Charged couple device (CCD) - ANS A method of capturing visible light and converting it into
an electrical signal for digital imaging systems. In radiography, a CCD device requires the use of
a scintillator to convert the x ray photons exiting the patient into visible light. CCD IMAGING
SYSTEMS ARE CASSETTE-less in design.
Contrast - ANS The density difference on adjacent areas of a radiographic image.
Contrast resolution - ANS The ability of an imaging system to distinguish between similar
tissues.
Digital archive - ANS A digital storage an image management system; in essence, a
sophisticated computer system for storage of patient files and images.
Display matrix - ANS Series of "boxes" that give form to the image
Display pixel size - ANS Pixel size of the monitor, related to the display matrix
Edge enhancement - ANS The application of specific image processing that alters pixel values
in the image to make the edges of structures appear more prominent compared with images
with less or no change when edge enhancement is applied
Equalization - ANS The application of specific image processing that alters the pixel values
across the image to present a more uniform image appearance. The pixel values representing
low brightness are made brighter, and pixel values with high brightness are made to appear less
bright.
Exposure indicator - ANS A numeric value that is represntative of the exposure the image
receptor recieved in digital radiography
Exposure latitude - ANS Range of exposure intensities that will produce an acceptable image
