What is considered a slow frame rate in pulsed fluoroscopy?

A slow frame rate in pulsed fluoroscopy generally refers to the ability of the system to capture and display images at a rate that may not adequately represent motion. A frame rate of less than 30 frames per second (fps) is typically considered slow because it can result in lag or blurring of rapidly moving anatomical structures, making it harder to capture dynamic processes effectively.

Pulsed fluoroscopy uses intermittent radiation exposure to create images, and frame rates can vary depending on the imaging system and the specific clinical application. Frame rates that are too low can diminish the diagnostic quality and may impede the visualization of fast-moving elements, such as blood flow or the movement of joints.

In clinical practice, frame rates of 30 fps or higher are often preferred to ensure better visualization, as they would provide smoother motion and clearer images. Therefore, anything below this threshold, particularly rates under 30 fps, is seen as inadequate for most fluoroscopic applications, reinforcing that less than 30 fps is indeed categorized as a slower frame rate.