What is the purpose of the grid in radiography?

The grid in radiography is specifically designed to reduce scatter radiation that can degrade the quality of radiographic images. Scatter radiation occurs when the primary X-ray beam interacts with matter and is deflected in various directions. This unwanted radiation contributes to fogging on the radiograph, which can obscure details and lower contrast, making it difficult to interpret the image accurately.

By incorporating a grid, radiographers can absorb a significant portion of the scatter radiation before it reaches the image receptor, thereby enhancing the overall quality of the radiograph. This leads to an improved contrast between the structures of interest and the surrounding tissues, allowing for more precise diagnosis and assessment.

While grids can also lead to a need for higher exposures and can influence factors like image sharpness, their primary function is to specifically target and mitigate the effects of scatter radiation. This focus is crucial for obtaining clearer and more diagnostic images.