Radiographic image quality assessment utilizing a stepped calibration target

摘要

A system and method for performing a rapid, automatic, quantitative assessment of the image quality of a radiographic image is disclosed. The present invention utilizes a stepped calibration target made of differentially attenuating disks that is exposed to a beam of radiation simultaneously with the exposure of an object of examination. The recording medium is developed, if necessary, and the image of at least the calibration target is read, as with a laser scanner or a CCD. The optical density characteristics of the image of the calibration target are then analyzed with respect to reference optical density criteria associated with the type of recording medium used and indicative of an optimal signal pattern. If the optical density characteristics of the calibration target image meet the reference criteria, then an indication is made to show that the radiographic image has been approved as meeting the quality assurance threshold. The recording medium is typically a sheet of film, so that the approval mark may be a permanent part of the record, such as a notch in a corner of the film. The recording medium may also be a storage phosphor screen.