What does SOD stand for?

The term SOD stands for Source to Object Distance. This distance is critical in radiographic imaging, particularly in fluoroscopy, as it measures the distance from the radiation source (such as an X-ray tube) to the object being imaged, typically the patient. Understanding SOD is essential for practitioners because it directly impacts the quality of the imaging and the dose of radiation that the patient receives. A larger SOD generally results in lower radiation exposure and better image quality due to reduced scatter radiation. Therefore, the proper management of SOD is key in clinical practice to ensure both the effectiveness of imaging and the safety of the patient.