What role does Automatic Exposure Control (AEC) play in DXR?

Automatic Exposure Control (AEC) is a vital feature in digital radiography (DXR) that significantly enhances the quality and safety of imaging procedures. The primary role of AEC is to adapt imaging parameters, such as exposure time and radiation dose, to the patient’s size and anatomical characteristics. By adjusting these parameters dynamically, AEC ensures that each patient receives the optimal amount of radiation necessary to produce a diagnostic-quality image while preventing unnecessary exposure.

In practice, AEC systems utilize sensors to detect the amount of radiation that has passed through the patient before terminating the exposure, which helps in tailoring the imaging process to individual patient needs. This personalized approach minimizes the risk of underexposure or overexposure, ultimately leading to a more accurate diagnosis and improved patient outcomes. Additionally, while there are other potential benefits associated with AEC, such as reducing radiation exposure overall, its fundamental purpose lies in enabling precise adjustments based on patient size.