What is a common artifact that may appear on digital images?

Motion blur is a common artifact that can appear on digital images, often resulting from the movement of the patient or equipment during the imaging process. This blurring occurs when there is relative motion between the imaging detector and the object being imaged while the exposure is being made. As a result, instead of a sharp image, the details can become smeared or indistinct.

In digital imaging, motion blur can lead to challenges in accurately interpreting the images, making it difficult for radiologists or clinicians to identify and assess potential abnormalities. This artifact is especially problematic in situations where a patient may have difficulty remaining still, such as in pediatric imaging or in patients experiencing discomfort.

Other options, such as radiopacity, contrast enhancement, and improved resolution, do not represent artifacts. Radiopacity refers to the degree to which a material can absorb or impede the passage of x-rays, affecting the appearance of structures in an imaging study. Contrast enhancement is a technique used to improve the visibility of structures, and improved resolution pertains to the detail or clarity of the images produced. These aspects contribute to the quality of imaging rather than being artifacts that degrade the image.