Film-Screen Radiographic Artefacts: A Paradigm Shift in Classification

Objective: To propose a new method of classifying film-screen radiographic artefacts. Methodology: A prospective study was carried out at the Radiology Department of a University Teaching Hospital in Nigeria between June, 2011 and June 2013. Radiographs were assessed with the aid of a viewing box for artefacts which were arranged according to prior classifications by other researchers. They were subsequently grouped according to pre-arranged format into the new classification. Result: The following groups were observed: packaging (dark), procedure (greyscale), patient (greyscale), pre-processor (dark), processor (greyscale) and post-processor (greyscale). Conclusion: Classification of artefacts based on appearance and stage of introduction into film is easier to understand and remember.