Which device is primarily used to minimize patient exposure during radiographic procedures?

Collimation is designed specifically to minimize patient exposure during radiographic procedures by limiting the size and shape of the x-ray beam. This focus reduces the amount of unnecessary radiation that might otherwise expose surrounding tissues outside of the targeted area, thereby protecting the patient from excessive radiation dose. When the x-ray beam is collimated, only the area of interest is irradiated, resulting in improved image quality and reduced scatter radiation.

While protective clothing contributes to radiation safety by shielding the patient and personnel from exposure, it does not actively reduce the amount of radiation that the patient receives during the imaging process. Patient positioning is essential for obtaining accurate images but does not inherently minimize exposure; instead, it serves to ensure that the area of interest is properly aligned with the x-ray beam. Increased exposure time, on the other hand, would result in higher radiation doses to the patient, which is contrary to the goal of minimizing exposure.