Patent ID: 7531822
Filing Date: 2009-05-12
Classification: A61B,G03B

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for obtaining a radiographic image comprising: an erasable photostimulable storage medium that can store a radiographic image when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation at an exposure wavelength and that can be erased for subsequent use when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation at an erasure wavelength; an X-ray apparatus for exposing the storage medium at the exposure wavelength; a memory that stores a signal that is indicative of elapsed time since a most recent erasure of the photostimulable medium; and a processor for determining whether the elapsed time exceeds a limit for imaging of the medium and, when the elapsed time is determined to be above the limit but acceptable, for providing a warning to an operator of the X-ray apparatus and for enabling the operator to proceed with imaging without erasing the medium.