Approximately what percentage of cases will require MAJOR adjustments to a radiographic technique chart?

• A. 10
• B. 5
• C. 25
• D. 50

Answer: (A)

Technique charts are built to standardize exposure for patients who fall within an expected size and projection, so images come out consistently with minimal repeats. Most exams fit the chart, and only a small portion require sizable changes to the exposure settings. A major adjustment becomes necessary when a patient’s size or the projection pushes well outside what the chart anticipates—examples include very small pediatric patients, significantly larger adults, or atypical body thickness due to immobilizers or pathology. Because these outliers are relatively uncommon, the need for major adjustments is typically around 5–10% of cases in many practice settings, making 10% the best approximation. In everyday use, the majority of cases can be handled with minor tweaks, while major changes are reserved for those atypical situations.