What do "image artifacts" refer to in digital radiography?

Image artifacts in digital radiography refer to unwanted anomalies in an image that can obscure or misrepresent anatomical structures. These artifacts can arise from various sources, such as equipment malfunction, improper technique, or patient movement, and they can lead to misleading interpretations of the images. For instance, artifacts may appear as streaks, blurring, or unusual patterns that distract from the genuine anatomical features, thereby complicating diagnoses and treatment decisions. Understanding and identifying these artifacts is crucial for radiologists and technologists to ensure that the images accurately represent the patient's condition, allowing for better clinical outcomes.

The other options do not accurately define image artifacts; preferred imaging techniques focus on optimal methods for capturing images rather than issues that detract from them. Standard quality measurements are criteria used to assess the overall effectiveness or clarity of images, rather than anomalies within them. Methods of enhancing image clarity are techniques employed to improve image quality, contrasting with the idea of artifacts that negatively impact the image.