Analysis of photostimulable phosphor plate image artifacts in an oral and maxillofacial radiology department

ObjectiveTo analyze image artifact types and occurrence frequency when using a phosphor storage plate (PSP) digital radiographic system.Study designA total of 15,912 scanned digital images were evaluated by 3 observers, and image artifacts were classified into: 1) operator errors; 2) scanning errors; 3) PSP plate defects. To avoid damage to the sensor plate, a modification technique innovated by Roberts and Mol was used where needed and 2 double-sided pieces of tape were placed around the sensor plate covering.ResultsA total of 643 image artifacts were identified. The main image artifact cause was operator error (n = 554), followed by defects of plate (n = 60) and scanning (n = 29). Scanning errors could generally be corrected by rescanning, but most other artifacts required image retaking. The use of a modified clinical technique greatly reduced artifacts caused by wearing of the sensor plate (20%).ConclusionsModified methods to decrease the occurrence of image artifacts using PSP digital radiographic system are encouraged.