c. Since the backs of holders (and cassettes) contain thin sheets of lead to
prevent backscatter fogging, you should take care not to use the folder upside down.
If you do this, the lead will absorb most of the radiation, leaving the film underexposed.
Be sure to place the side marked "tube side" facing the x-ray tube and you will avoid
this problem.
1-17. REMOVAL OF FILM FROM CARTON
In taking the film (to be used in a cassette) from the carton, always remove the
film slowly. Rapid movement can cause a build-up of static electricity. When the film is
removed from its carton, it should be held vertically at the middle of the top border with
the fingertips of the right hand and placed in the cassette. Careful handling will prevent
many kinds of marks on the film.
1-18. LOADING AND UNLOADING THE CASSETTE
a. Loading. When loading a cassette, the film is placed in the bottom of the
cassette on the front intensifying screen. The lid carrying the back screen is gently
closed and locked by means of the back springs. When placing the film in the cassette,
care should be exercised to avoid scraping or sliding the film over the edges of the
cassettes or the surface of the screen. The procedure for correctly loading a cassette is
illustrated in figure 1-7.
b. Unloading. The correct procedure for removal after exposure of the x-ray
film cassette it is to be sure hands are dry and not come in contact with the screens.
1-19. REMOVING AND LOADING DENTAL FILM
Since dental x-ray films are in sealed individual wrappings, a special procedure
for removing these wrappings is required. A dental film hanger consists of a bar of
metal, which is affixed to film-holding clips for insertion of exposed dental x-ray films for
processing. Care should be taken not to make any finger marks on the film.
1-20. LOADING PROCESSING HANGERS WITH REGULAR FILM
When an unexposed film is removed from the cassette or exposure holder, it is
held vertically with the left hand at the upper left corner while a processing hanger of
proper size is taken from the storage rack. The upper left corner of the film is inserted
in the bottom left clip and the right film corner is inserted in the right bottom clip. The
hanger is then inverted and the procedure repeated. The procedure for loading the
hanger is shown in figure 1-7. The film is now ready to be developed, but before
immersing it in the developer, the surface of the film should be checked to see that it is
taut and does not bulge. If it bulges, straighten it by readjustment at the bow and clips.
Since cleanliness is of utmost importance and the presence of extraneous marks or
artifacts on the radiograph are objectionable, clips must be kept scrupulously clean.
MD0954
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