What happens to the output dose rate when the target-to-intensifier distance is decreased in an Activated ABC fluoroscopic system?

In an Activated Automatic Brightness Control (ABC) fluoroscopic system, when the target-to-intensifier distance is decreased, the output dose rate is actually increased. This is due to the geometry of X-ray production and the inverse square law, which states that the intensity of radiation is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source. As the distance between the target (where X-rays are produced) and the image intensifier (where the image is captured) is reduced, the intensity of the radiation reaching the detector increases, which in turn raises the output dose rate.

While increases in output dose rate are often associated with reduced distances in many imaging systems, the understanding here indicates that a decrease in the target-to-intensifier distance allows for better image quality and reduced noise due to more focused exposure. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize that the statement would lead one to believe that output dose rate decreases when in reality, it is an increase that aligns more closely with physical principles such as the inverse square law, highlighting how an activated ABC system dynamically adjusts to maintain image quality while managing dose rates.