What common issue can lead to "motion blur" in radiographic images?

Motion blur in radiographic images is primarily caused by patient movement during the exposure time. When patients are unable to remain still while the x-ray exposure is being made, any movement leads to a loss of sharpness in the image. This occurs because the x-ray film or digital detector captures images over a certain duration; if the subject moves during this exposure, the resulting image will display blurring along the lines of movement. This is particularly significant in techniques that require precise detail to be maintained, as motion artifacts can obscure important diagnostic information.

Other factors, while they may impact the quality of the radiograph, do not directly cause motion blur. For example, static electricity can lead to artifacts on the film but does not result from movement during the exposure. Incorrect device settings might compromise image quality generally but wouldn't specifically cause motion blur. Likewise, improper storage of radiographs can deteriorate the images over time, yet this would not be directly related to the clarity lost during exposure due to movement. Thus, the essence of motion blur is directly linked to the necessity for patient stillness throughout the imaging process.