What issue can 'beam hardening' introduce into digital radiography?

Beam hardening refers to the phenomenon where lower-energy X-ray photons are absorbed more readily than higher-energy photons as they pass through a material, such as human tissue. This results in the remaining beam being "hardened" with higher-energy photons, which can lead to various imaging artifacts or distortions in digital radiography.

When the beam is hardened, it can produce inaccurate representations of the tissue structure and density in the final image. For example, in areas where there is a significant difference in density, such as near bony structures or contrast media, artifacts can occur that interfere with the overall diagnostic quality of the radiographic image. These artifacts might manifest as dark bands or streaks in the image, leading to misinterpretation of anatomical structures and potentially affecting diagnoses.

Understanding beam hardening is crucial for radiologic technologists and radiologists alike, as it directly impacts the quality and reliability of the images produced, ultimately affecting patient care and treatment decisions.