Effect Of Delayed Film Processing And Milliamperage Changes On Image Quality

A study of the effect of delayed clinical processing and milliamperage changes on image quality was carried out at the Radiology Department, University of Calabar, Nigeria, using filmstrips exposed to x-radiation at milliamperage (mA) values of 50, 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500. Exposed film strips were processed over varied post exposure, pre-processing keeping times ranging from 0 hours (control) to the 18th day. Results show progressive decrease in optical densities measured on the film, with prolonged pre-processing keeping time, and this is more marked at low (50) mA procedures, and is less in high (500) mA procedures, at which mA also, the onset was highly delayed (commencing about the 12th hour). The implication of this in a developing economy is discussed.