Computed Radiography in Perspective

Introduction Imagine the excitement accompanying the first realization that noninvasive visualization of bones was possible. German physicist Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen was working in a darkened room on November 8, 1895, experimenting with electrical charges flowing through a vacuum tube, when a piece of paper coated with barium platinum cyanide glowed. Coincidentally, it had been left near a cardboard covered tube. Experimentation with the fluorescent paper and the charged tube followed. He discovered that if he held his hand between the tube and the paper, he could see the silhouette of hand bones on the paper. Roentgen took full advantage of the glowing paper and on December 22, 1895, produced the oldest existing radiographic record. It shows the bones of his wife’s hand with a large signet ring on one finger. Medical professionals quickly embraced this new technology. Since then many technological advances have improved radiologic diagnostic capability. Keeping up with advancements can be difficult. A technician who stays abreast of the technology is a valuable clinic asset. This article will review film-screen radiography (FSR), discuss computed radiography (CR) in depth, introduce direct digital radiography (DDR), and contrast and compare the different systems. CR systems were introduced to the medical market in 1981. Although CR equipment acquisition cost has been relatively steady, more economically feasible systems are now available through veterinary vendors. The cost of DDR is financially impractical for most practices.