What are the most commonly used materials for filtration in fluoroscopy?

The most commonly used materials for filtration in fluoroscopy are copper and aluminum because they effectively attenuate low-energy X-rays while allowing higher-energy X-rays to pass through. This selective absorption is crucial in reducing patient dose, as low-energy X-rays contribute to radiation exposure without providing useful diagnostic information.

Copper is particularly favored due to its high atomic number, allowing for effective filtration of lower-energy beams. Aluminum, being lightweight and relatively inexpensive, is often used as a standard filtration material due to its optimal balance of energy attenuation and practicality in design. Together, these materials help in maintaining image quality by removing scatter and unnecessary radiation, thereby ensuring that the fluoroscopic process is safer for both patients and healthcare providers.

Other materials such as lead, bronze, plastic, glass, and steel are not typically used for this specific purpose in fluoroscopy as they either do not provide the same level of efficient filtration or are unsuitable for the necessary physical properties and performance characteristics required in the fluoroscopic environment.