What is the primary function of filtration in radiography?

Filtration in radiography plays a crucial role in reducing the patient skin dose. The primary purpose of applying filtration is to absorb low-energy x-rays that do not contribute to the image formation but increase the radiation dose received by the patient. When these unnecessary low-energy x-rays are filtered out, it diminishes the overall exposure to the skin without compromising the quality of the diagnostic image, thereby improving patient safety.

By effectively managing the energy levels of the radiation reaching the patient, filtration ensures that only the higher-energy x-rays, which are more likely to penetrate tissues and contribute to image clarity, are utilized. This balancing act helps in minimizing unnecessary radiation exposure while still allowing for adequate image quality.

This function of filtration thus aligns with radiation safety practices, prioritizing patient health by reducing the risks associated with unnecessary radiation exposure during imaging procedures.