What is the recommended positioning for the image receptor during fluoroscopic procedures?

Keeping the image receptor close to the patient during fluoroscopic procedures is a key practice for minimizing radiation dose. When the image receptor is positioned closer to the patient, it improves the efficiency of capturing the transmitted x-rays, allowing for better image quality without needing to increase the radiation dose. This is particularly important in fluoroscopy, where extended exposure times can lead to higher cumulative doses for both patients and imaging personnel.

Positioning the receptor far away from the patient would not only increase the exposure needed to achieve a diagnostic image but would also result in increased scatter radiation, potentially affecting image quality. Rotating the image receptor away from the primary x-ray beam can lead to suboptimal imaging and an increased need for repeat exposures, which further enhances patient dose. While adjusting the angle might capture more scattered photons, it is generally less effective compared to close positioning of the receptor relative to the patient in terms of overall radiation safety and imaging efficacy.