Description
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of their uses:
1. Protection from Light:
Cassettes are designed to be light-tight, preventing any stray light from fogging the film or affecting the image quality.
This ensures that the image is solely produced by the X-rays passing through the patient and interacting with the film/plate.
2. Film/Plate Support:
Cassettes hold the film or imaging plate firmly in place, ensuring it’s in the correct position during the exposure.
They also facilitate proper contact between the film/plate and the intensifying screens, which enhance the image.
3. Protection from Physical Damage:
Cassettes protect the film/plate from dust, dirt, and other contaminants that could damage the image.
They also shield the intensifying screens from scratches or other physical damage.
4. Facilitating Efficient Image Capture:
Cassettes allow for quick and easy loading and unloading of the film/plate.
They also enable the technologist to accurately position the film/plate for the desired X-ray exposure.
5. Used in Different Imaging Techniques:
Cassettes are used in conventional radiography (where film is exposed to X-rays).
They are also used in computed radiography (CR), where an imaging plate absorbs X-rays, and then the data is converted to a digital image.
6. Components of a Cassette:
Front and Back Panels: These form the container, typically made of a light-resistant material.
Hinge: Allows the cassette to be opened and closed for loading and unloading the film/plate.
Intensifying Screens: These screens, placed inside the cassette, convert X-rays into light photons, which then expose the film.
Latching Mechanism: Holds the cassette closed during exposure.