What is the optimal target-to-panel distance for most fluoroscopic examinations?

The optimal target-to-panel distance for most fluoroscopic examinations is 18 inches. This distance is established to ensure a balance between image quality and radiation dose. Maintaining this distance helps to minimize geometric distortion and magnification effects, which can occur if the source-to-image receptor distance is too short or too long.

At 18 inches, the system can effectively capture images with sufficient clarity while keeping the radiation exposure to the patient and staff at safer levels. Additionally, this distance is often compatible with the design of most fluoroscopy equipment, which is calibrated for this setup. Choosing a distance that deviates significantly from the established standard could lead to suboptimal imaging quality or unnecessarily increased radiation exposure.