What distinguishes computed radiography (CR) from conventional X-ray films?

Computed radiography (CR) is distinguished from conventional X-ray films primarily because CR digitizes image data for immediate display. In CR, image receptor plates made of photostimulable phosphors are used to capture the X-ray image. After exposure, these plates are processed by a CR reader, which digitizes the stored image data and converts it into a digital form. This allows for immediate display and manipulation of the images on a computer screen, enabling real-time assessment and diagnostics.

The ability to digitize images significantly enhances workflow, allowing for quick retrieval, easier storage, and the potential for image enhancement, which improves diagnostic accuracy. Unlike traditional film, which requires chemical processing and has a longer turnaround time for image availability, CR delivers prompt results, making it a more efficient option in medical imaging practices.