Description

PREFACE

The authors all have several years’ experience teaching undergradu-
ate physics and have seen the evolution from film to digital imaging.

Although there are some relevant books available, the information
often requires careful filtering by the student. We have tried to write
a book where the topics are covered in ‘bite’ size chunks. The idea is
to provide a clear guide to the subject using clear text and diagrams/
photographs to support the text. Each chapter has clear ‘learning
objectives’ and a series of multiple choice questions (MCQs) to test
these learning outcomes.
The aim of this book is to give the reader an understanding of the

basic physics underpinning diagnostic radiography and imaging sci-
ence. It is essential that any practitioner working in an imaging depart-
ment and using ionising radiation has a sound knowledge base. In order

to understand the various factors affecting the production of diagnostic
images, there is a requirement to demonstrate an understanding of the
fundamental definitions of physics and how these principles may be
applied to radiography.

The book opens with chapters that give an overview of image pro-
duction, basic mathematics and physics relevant to medical imaging

and then detailed chapters on the physics relevant to producing diag-
nostic images using X-rays. Diagnostic radiography involves the safe

use of ionising radiation and the production of diagnostic images.
The process by which images are produced involves the conversion of

energy from one form to another and this underpins the fundamen-
tals of imaging. It requires knowledge of specialised equipment, such

as the X-ray tube, image detectors, computers and image processors.
Understanding the fundamental principles of this equipment is the
basic knowledge base of any practitioner.
The final chapters review the factors affecting image quality and
radiation dose: how correct exposures are indicated by the equipment
together with how to manipulate images, data management and display
parameters. Discussion of risk benefit, safety and radiation protection
conclude the book as these are necessary requirements of health-care
practitioners using ionising radiation.