Which grid type is specifically designed to follow the divergence of the x-ray beam?

The focused grid is specifically crafted to accommodate the divergent nature of the x-ray beam. In x-ray imaging, the beam does not emanate as a straight line but rather diverges from the point of origin, which is typically the focal spot of the x-ray tube. A focused grid has lead strips angled in such a way that they match the trajectory of the x-ray beam as it exits the tube. This design allows for effective filtration of scatter radiation while still allowing primary x-rays to pass through to the film or detector, thereby enhancing image quality and contrast.

This grid type is essential in procedures where high image quality is paramount, as it minimizes the amount of scatter radiation reaching the receptor, which can cause fogging and degrade the visibility of anatomical structures in the image. By following the beam’s divergence, focused grids improve diagnostic accuracy, making them a preferred choice in many radiographic applications.