RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To analyze image artifact types and occurrence frequency when using a phosphor storage plate (PSP) digital radiographic system. STUDY DESIGN: 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.
Assuntos
Artefatos , Radiografia Dentária Digital/instrumentação , Humanos , Variações Dependentes do Observador , Ecrans Intensificadores para Raios XRESUMO
To assist certain patient populations who are unable to tolerate intraoral films and/or sensors during endodontic therapy, an alternative technique (extraoral film placement) has been innovated by Newman and Friedman (2003). In this study, we devise and test a film/sensor-beam alignment aiming device for taking a periapical radiograph using this extraoral radiographic technique. An instrument is assembled from the following components: (1) two locator rings for bite-wing radiography, (2) two metal supporting indicator rods for bite-wing radiography, (3) a bite block for horizontal bite-wing radiography, and (4) a rubber tube of about 2 cm in length. Using our newly-devised aiming device to take periapical radiographs using the extraoral technique, appropriate images of the left upper and right lower molar areas for a series of 12 adult volunteers were successfully obtained. Angulation of the x-ray cone, with reference to the horizontal plane, was -20 degrees to -30 degrees and -10 degrees to -15 degrees for the upper and lower teeth, respectively. This study therefore shows that appropriate images can be easily obtained using this aiming device.