Artifacts interfering with interpretation of cone beam computed tomography images

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Image Analysis

Background:

• Radiographic imaging artifacts represent deviations between the image and the actual subject.
• These discrepancies can involve incorrect grayscale values or the appearance of non-existent structures.
• Artifacts compromise the fidelity of radiographic images, impacting diagnostic reliability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To define and describe radiographic imaging artifacts.
• To emphasize the importance of recognizing artifacts for accurate image interpretation.
• To highlight how familiarity with artifacts aids in extracting diagnostic information.

Main Methods:

• Review of fundamental principles of radiographic imaging.
• Analysis of common sources and visual characteristics of image artifacts.
• Discussion of the impact of artifacts on image accuracy.

Main Results:

• Artifacts are defined as discrepancies between the reconstructed image and the subject.
• Artifacts manifest as inaccurate grayscale values or spurious structures.
• The presence of artifacts degrades the image's accuracy regarding the subject's true characteristics.

Conclusions:

• Awareness of radiographic artifacts is essential for accurate medical diagnoses.
• Familiarity with artifact appearances enhances diagnostic information extraction.
• Mitigating or understanding artifacts improves the diagnostic value of radiographic imaging.