What phenomenon can occur if the grid is positioned incorrectly, such as upside-down?

When a grid is positioned incorrectly, especially if it is upside-down, grid cut-off occurs. A grid is designed to absorb scattered radiation while allowing the primary radiation to pass through and reach the image receptor. Its effectiveness relies on the proper alignment with the X-ray beam. If the grid is inverted, it can block the primary X-ray photons that would otherwise contribute to the image, resulting in a significant loss of density in certain areas of the radiographic image.

The increase in density across the image can lead to artifacts, making interpretation difficult. This phenomenon highlights the importance of proper grid positioning to ensure that the intended diagnostic quality is achieved in radiographic images. Consequently, understanding grid orientation is crucial for radiologic technologists to prevent grid cut-off and maintain image quality.