What can occur if the collimator's light field does not align with the radiation field?

When the collimator's light field does not align properly with the radiation field, several significant issues can arise. One of the most concerning outcomes is unnecessary patient exposure, which occurs when the radiation field extends beyond the intended area, potentially resulting in the irradiation of healthy tissues that should not be exposed to radiation. This situation raises the potential risk associated with ionizing radiation, necessitating careful attention to ensure alignment.

Additionally, misalignment may lead to distortion of the image. When the light field and radiation field are mismatched, it can cause artifacts or inaccuracies in the images produced. This undermines the quality and reliability of the diagnostic information obtained from the imaging process, which is critical for effective patient management.

Furthermore, improper alignment may result in the collimating off of critical anatomy. This means that important structures or areas of interest may not be included in the captured image, potentially leading to missed diagnoses or overlooked pathologies.

Given these ramifications, the possibility of all these outcomes occurring underscores the importance of ensuring that the collimator's light field is correctly aligned with the radiation field for safe and effective radiographic practices.