Analysis of photostimulable phosphor plate image artifacts in an oral and maxillofacial radiology department.
OBJECTIVE
To analyze image artifact types and occurrence frequency when using a phosphor storage plate (PSP) digital radiographic system.


METHODS
A total of 15,912 scanned digital images were evaluated by 3 observers, and image artifacts were classified into: 1) operator errors; 2) scanning errors; 3) PSP plate defects. To avoid damage to the sensor plate, a modification technique innovated by Roberts and Mol was used where needed and 2 double-sided pieces of tape were placed around the sensor plate covering.


RESULTS
A total of 643 image artifacts were identified. The main image artifact cause was operator error (n = 554), followed by defects of plate (n = 60) and scanning (n = 29). Scanning errors could generally be corrected by rescanning, but most other artifacts required image retaking. The use of a modified clinical technique greatly reduced artifacts caused by wearing of the sensor plate (20%).


CONCLUSIONS
Modified methods to decrease the occurrence of image artifacts using PSP digital radiographic system are encouraged.
Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Radiology, School of Dentistry, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Hui-Lin
HL
Chiu
Shui-Hui
SH
Lin
Chia-Hui
CH
Chen
Wen-Chen
WC
Wang
Jin-Yi
JY
Chen
Yuk-Kwan
YK
Chen
Li-Min
LM
Lin
D016477:Artifacts; D006801:Humans; D015588:Observer Variation; D019252:Radiography, Dental, Digital / Q000295:instrumentation*; D014963:X-Ray Intensifying Screens