What does kVp stand for in radiography?

The term kVp stands for Kilovolt peak in the context of radiography. It refers to the maximum voltage applied across the x-ray tube during an exposure. This parameter is crucial because it directly influences the quality and penetrating power of the x-rays produced. Higher kVp settings generally result in x-rays that have greater energy, which allows them to penetrate tissues more effectively, thus enabling clearer images of internal structures.

In addition to image quality, kVp also affects the contrast of the radiographic image. A higher kVp might produce a lower contrast image due to the broader energy spectrum of x-rays, while a lower kVp typically results in a higher contrast image. Understanding kVp is essential for radiographers to optimize imaging techniques and ensure accurate and diagnostic-quality images.