When should a computed radiography (CR) imaging plate be processed to avoid losing the latent image?

Processing a computed radiography (CR) imaging plate as soon as possible after exposure is critical to avoid losing the latent image. The latent image refers to the information captured on the imaging plate immediately after exposure to radiation but has not yet been converted into a visible image.

Over time, the stored image can degrade due to various factors, including background radiation and electronic noise, which can lead to the loss of diagnostic information. Processing the plate quickly ensures that the signals containing the latent image are accurately read and converted into a digital format, preserving the quality of the image for diagnostic purposes.

While there may be systems that allow for some delay in processing—by ensuring the plate is kept in optimal storage conditions—the general recommendation is to process the plate as soon as possible to maintain the integrity of the diagnostic information.