What is a possible consequence of insufficient collimation in radiographic procedures?

Insufficient collimation refers to the failure to adequately limit the area of the primary x-ray beam, which can lead to the exposure of larger areas of tissue than intended. When collimation is insufficient, more surrounding tissues are exposed to radiation, increasing the risk of radiation exposure to those areas. This is a concern not only from a safety perspective but also because it can contribute to increased scatter radiation, potentially affecting image quality.

Proper collimation is a key factor in radiation protection, as it minimizes unnecessary exposure to patients and healthcare workers. It also helps to maintain the quality of the radiographic image by reducing scatter radiation, which can degrade image clarity. Therefore, the consequence of insufficient collimation, specifically the increased exposure of surrounding tissues, is a critical consideration in radiographic procedures.