What is the primary purpose of collimation in radiographic procedures?

The primary purpose of collimation in radiographic procedures is to reduce patient dose. Collimation involves the use of a device that narrows the x-ray beam, limiting the area of the patient's body that is exposed to radiation. By focusing the x-ray beam on only the region of interest, collimation minimizes the radiation exposure to surrounding tissues and organs, thereby protecting the patient from unnecessary radiation.

This practice is essential in radiography, as it not only enhances patient safety but also improves the overall quality of the images obtained. By reducing scatter radiation, collimation helps to produce clearer images, which can aid in more accurate diagnoses. Overall, the effective use of collimation reflects a key principle in radiation protection: optimizing the dose while maintaining image quality.