What is the main advantage of using fast film?

Using fast film in radiology primarily offers the advantage of less exposure to the patient. Fast film is designed to be more sensitive to x-ray radiation, which means that it can produce diagnostic images with a shorter exposure time compared to slower films. This increased sensitivity allows for reduced levels of radiation to be used during imaging procedures, which is a significant benefit for patient safety.

In addition to minimizing radiation exposure, fast film also facilitates quicker imaging processes, thereby enhancing patient throughput in a clinical setting. While some may think that fast film leads to higher resolution images, slower films often provide finer detail due to their lower grain structure. Therefore, the primary reason fast film is favored is its ability to reduce radiation dose to the patient while still achieving sufficient diagnostic quality.