Technical aspects of screen-film radiography, film processing, and quality control

The broad goal of quality control (QC) of screen-film radiography and film processing is to provide radiographs of consistent, high quality. Achievement of this goal requires attention to several areas, including QC of the screen-film system and photographic processor, acceptance testing of all components, and skill in analysis of film artifacts to "diagnose" the processor problems causing the aberrations. Methods to reduce waste, recycle by-products, and reuse resources such as silver are also part of the QC process. To optimize the photographic process, one should use the film, chemical solutions, processor, and screens and cassettes produced by one manufacturer or the combination recommended by the film manufacturer. Important variables in film processing (eg, density, density difference, and base plus fog) are recorded on control charts, which plot the variables as a function of time and allow easy analysis of changes in operating levels. Many variables can affect any component in the screen-film imaging system; problems caused by manufacturing batch-to-batch variation, which is perhaps the most pervasive variable, can be lessened by purchasing film, screens, and cassettes in large batches and of the same batch and by purchasing photographic chemicals in concentrated form and mixing them as needed. Acceptance testing ensures that the product meets expectations, ensures that its performance meets specifications, and establishes the operating level for the ongoing QC program.