What is the effect on the anode side of the x-ray field due to the anode heel effect?

The anode heel effect refers to the variation in x-ray intensity across the x-ray beam, specifically that the intensity is higher on the cathode side (the side of the tube where the electrons are emitted) and lower on the anode side (the side where the x-rays are produced).

As x-rays are generated and emitted from the anode, they must pass through the anode material itself before exiting the x-ray tube. Because the anode is thicker and denser than the surrounding materials, more x-rays are attenuated or absorbed at the anode side. This results in a lower intensity of radiation reaching the film or detector on that side compared to the cathode side.

In practical terms, when positioning a patient for an x-ray, understanding the anode heel effect can be crucial for ensuring uniform image quality. It may be beneficial to position the denser anatomical structures on the cathode side to take advantage of the higher intensity and maintain image clarity.