Does using tighter collimation help reduce "undercutting"?

Using tighter collimation does indeed help to reduce "undercutting." Undercutting refers to the phenomenon where there is a loss of image detail or contrast, particularly in areas outside the primary radiation beam due to scatter radiation. By employing tighter collimation, the radiographer limits the area exposed to radiation, which minimizes the amount of scatter that occurs. This focused exposure helps to improve image quality by reducing the potential for undercutting, as the tissues outside the collimated region are less likely to be affected by scattered rays. This practice is essential in producing clearer and more diagnostic images, making it a fundamental technique in radiographic procedures.