What is one consequence of using high kVp in x-ray imaging?

Using high kVp (kilovolt peak) in x-ray imaging impacts the quality and characteristics of the resultant images. When high kVp is utilized, it leads to increased penetration of x-rays through the patient’s body, resulting in a higher intensity of the x-ray beam reaching the imaging receptor.

This increased penetration enhances the contrast of the image by providing a broader range of shades between light and dark areas, which consequently increases image density. Image density refers to the degree of darkening on the film or digital image; in this case, a higher kVp amount effectively increases image density, allowing for better visualization of structures within the body, especially in denser tissues.

Other options do not align with the effects of high kVp. For instance, using high kVp typically does not require increased exposure time, nor does it increase patient dose as much as low kVp would for similar diagnostic imaging quality. Instead, high kVp reduces the overall dose because it is more efficient in penetrating tissue. Additionally, while details may sometimes appear less distinct at higher kVp due to decreased contrast, the primary consequence of using high kVp is indeed the increased image density.