What is the primary function of wedge filters in fluoroscopy?

Wedge filters are primarily utilized in fluoroscopy to balance exposure for areas of varying thicknesses in the body. This is essential because different tissues absorb X-rays differently, leading to unequal exposure within the same image. For instance, a thick body part might receive more radiation than a thinner part if only a flat field is used. By incorporating a wedge filter, which has a gradation in thickness, the X-ray beam is modified to reduce brightness and increase exposure in thicker areas while enhancing brightness in thinner portions. This results in a more uniform image that accurately represents the structures being examined.

Proper use of wedge filters ensures that there is improved overall image quality by minimizing the contrast differences that arise from structural variations, which is crucial for accurate diagnosis. Other functions like increasing image contrast or enhancing sharpness are not primary objectives of wedge filters; rather, those functions relate to different aspects of image processing and adjustment techniques.