Compared to CR systems, what advantage does DR have in minimizing patient exposure?

• A. DR systems offer a lower cost
• B. DR systems offer a wider dynamic range
• C. CR systems reduce noise better
• D. CR systems have faster processing

Answer: (B)

The main idea is exposure latitude, which is tied to the detector’s dynamic range. A wider dynamic range means the system can produce usable images over a broader range of exposure values. With DR, you can tolerate under- or over-exposure more easily, so you’re less likely to need repeats. Fewer repeats means less total radiation dose to the patient. DR detectors also tend to have higher efficiency, so you get good image quality at lower doses. The other options don’t capture this exposure-safety advantage: cost, noise handling, and processing speed aren’t the primary reasons DR reduces patient dose.