Why can lower ratio grids be utilized in conventional fluoroscopy?

Lower ratio grids can be utilized in conventional fluoroscopy because lower mAs settings are sufficient to maintain image quality while controlling scatter radiation. In fluoroscopy, especially in procedures that require continuous imaging, the goal is to use as low a dose as possible while still achieving clear and diagnostic images.

Lower ratio grids are designed to absorb some of the scattered radiation that can degrade image quality but do not require as much radiation to be effective as higher ratio grids. This characteristic allows for a reduction in the milliampere-seconds (mAs) setting, minimizing the exposure time and the dose delivered to the patient.

By using a lower mAs setting with these grids, practitioners can achieve a proper balance between image clarity and patient safety, making them particularly suitable for the dynamic nature of fluoroscopy where patient movement and longer examination times are common.