Which technique modifications can increase recorded detail in radiography?

Increasing the source-to-image distance (SID) is a well-established technique modification that enhances recorded detail in radiography. When the SID is increased, the X-ray beam diverges less, which leads to a reduction in the penumbra or blurred edges around structures in the image. This reduction in blur improves the sharpness and clarity of the details in the radiograph, allowing finer structures to be better visualized.

Moreover, increasing the SID also decreases the exposure intensity at the image receptor, which means that adjustment of exposure factors, like mAs, must be made to maintain adequate image quality. This technical aspect underscores the importance of careful calculation and adjustment to ensure optimal imaging outcomes.

Other techniques you might come across, such as manipulation of the object-to-image distance (OID) or focal spot size, generally have different impacts on detail. Reducing OID usually increases detail due to decreased magnification, while increasing focal spot size tends to decrease detail because it can contribute to a larger penumbra. Additionally, decreasing kilovoltage peak (kVp) can result in an increase in image contrast but may compromise the detail due to increased scatter and less overall penetration of the beam. Each of these factors plays a role in image quality, but increasing SID