Image quality of digital chest X-rays: Wet versus dry laser printers

The aim of this study was to compare the image quality of digital chest x-r ays (Thoravision) obtained with 2 "wet" laser imagers of different matrix s izes and a "dry" system. Fifty chest x-rays in 2 planes were printed out in normal (100%) and reduced (61%) format using 3 different systems: 2 "wet" laser imagers (Agfa Matrix LR 3300, 4256 x 5174 pixels, 315 dpi; Agfa Scopi x LR 5200, 8512 x 10348 pixels, 630 dpi), and one "dry" system (Agfa Drysta r 3000, 4352 x 5295 pixels, 330 dpi). All tests yielded normal findings. An onymous images were evaluated by 4 independent reviewers on record forms ra ting the detectability of predefined anatomic structures. When the image qu ality of diagnosis-relevant, anatomic structures was evaluated on digital c hest x-rays reproduced in normal and reduced format, the wet laser imagers did not show significant advantages over the dry system, Agfa Drystar 3000. The Agfa Drystar 3000 system is a feasible alternative for reproducing dig ital images, particularly for decentralized archives. Copyright (C) 2009 by W.B. Saunders Company.