An evaluation of the effect of tube potential on clinical image quality using direct digital detectors for pelvis and lumbar spine radiographs

INTRODUCTION: High kVp techniques, 15% or 10‐kVp rules, are well‐known dose reduction methods. Traditionally, the use of high tube potential (i.e. increased kVp) is associated with decreased radiographic contrast and overall image quality. Recent studies suggest contrast and image quality are not heavily reliant on kVp with digital systems. This study aims to assess the effects of the high tube potential technique on clinical radiographic image quality when using digital systems, to validate high kVp as a dose saving technique. METHODS: A selection of comparable pelvis and lumbar spine radiographs were collected from the hospital’s picture archiving and communication system (PACS), with technical factors recorded. All clinical radiographs were assessed by 5 senior radiographers using a 15‐point visual grading analysis (VGA) rubric. RESULTS: For 40 AP pelvis radiographs and 40 lateral lumbar spine radiographs, reduction in the dose area product (DAP) with higher kVp is seen. Average pelvis DAP at 75 kVp = 14.06 mGy.cm(2); 85 kVp = 7.47 mGy.cm(2). Average lumbar spine DAP at 80 kVp = 15.76 mGy.cm(2); 90 kVp = 14.83 mGy.cm(2). Image quality and contrast scores showed no statistically significant difference between the high and low kVp groups (z = 0.06 and 0.12, respectively). Average pelvis VGA score at 75 kVp = 11.26; 85 kVp = 12.55. Average lumbar spine VGA score at 80 kVp = 9.23; 90 kVp = 10.64. CONCLUSIONS: The high tube potential techniques allowed for reduced patient radiation doses whilst showing no degradation of diagnostic image quality in a clinical setting. This study successfully validates the high kVp technique as a useful tool for reducing patient radiation doses whilst maintaining high diagnostic image quality for digital pelvis and lumbar spine radiography.