Effect of delayed film processing and milliamperage changes on image quality

ABSTRACT

A study of the effect of delayed clinical processing and milliamperage changes on image quality was carried out at the Radiology Department; University of Calabar; Nigeria; using filmstrips exposed to x-radiation at milliamperage (mA) values of 50; 100; 200; 300; 400 and 500. Exposed film strips were processed over varied post exposure; peprocessing keeping times ranging from 0 hours (control) to the 18th day. Results show progressive decrease in optical densities measured on the film; with prolonged pre-processing keeping time; and this is more marked at low (50) mA procedures; and is less in high (500) mA procedures; at which mA also; the onset was highly delayed (commencing about the 12th hour). The implication of this in a developing economy is discussed