What is the primary purpose of collimation in radiography?

The primary purpose of collimation in radiography is to reduce the size and shape of the X-ray beam. This process limits the area of exposure to only the region of interest, which helps minimize the radiation dose to the patient and reduces scatter radiation. By controlling the dimensions of the beam, collimation not only protects adjacent tissues but also enhances image quality by decreasing the amount of scattered radiation that reaches the imaging receptor. This can lead to clearer images and better diagnostic information.

In radiographic practices, implementing effective collimation is crucial for safety and image quality. The use of collimation helps ensure that the radiographic technique is as efficient as possible, resulting in a focused beam that takes into account the area that needs to be examined while avoiding unnecessary exposure to surrounding areas.