What type of artifact might occur if the image intensifier is not functioning properly during fluoroscopy?

When the image intensifier is not functioning properly during fluoroscopy, image blur can commonly occur. This artifact is often a result of inadequate coupling or an improper electron trajectory in the image intensifier. If the image intensifier isn’t converting the incoming X-ray photons into light effectively, or if there are issues with the electronic components that process the images, the final output can become less distinct, leading to blurring. This blurring can affect the visibility of structures within the image, potentially complicating the interpretation of the fluoroscopic study.

Understanding the role of the image intensifier highlights why proper functioning is crucial. If it fails to enhance the contrast and detail of the image correctly, the result is a significant degradation in quality, manifesting as blur. Without careful handling and monitoring of the image intensifier, operators might struggle with image quality, potentially impacting patient diagnosis and care.