LEAD APRON USE
The use of a lead apron during a panoramic exposure prevents scatter radiation from deflecting off dense matter and exposing parts of the patient’s anatomy that are not in the direct path of the X-ray beam. Special panoramic lead aprons are available that cover both the back and front of the patient without interfering with the path of the X-ray beam to the patient dentition. The panoramic lead apron provides optimal protection from the scatter radiation. If a standard lead apron is to be used, it is important to drape the apron over the patient’s back and at a position where it will not interfere with the path of the X-ray beam. This is due to the fact that the X-ray source passes around the patient and behind their head and at a slight upward angle. The thyroid collar on the apron should be folded under or removed if possible to prevent the apron from blocking the radiation from getting to the film.

IDENTIFICATION BLOCKERS AND LEAD LABELS
The use of an ID blocker and lead labels allows the practitioner’s and patient’s information to be radiographically imprinted on the film. Prior to permanently affixing any ID blocker to a cassette, temporarily tape it in position to determine if the location is going to be suitable for the radiographic record. Identification blockers can be ordered in both normal and reverse order.

A panoramic film records the image of the patient from the inside out. When viewed by the practitioner, the image appears as if the practitioner were looking directly at the patient. With lead ID blockers for panoramic cassettes, the blockers can be ordered so that the practitioner’s information is placed in reverse order so it is readable when the processed film is viewed. In order for the patient’s information to be viewed correctly, the patient’s name and information can be written or typed on the back, adhesive side, of the label. This will allow the patient’s name to be viewed correctly along with the practitioner’s information on the processed film.

When placing the ID blocker on the exterior of the panoramic cassette, it is important to place it in an area that is not going to interfere with the radiographic image of the patient’s anatomy. It is suggested that the ID blocker be placed over the Panoramic Corporation logo on the cassette. As an alternative position, the blocker can also be placed along the vertical edge of the cassette.

When using an ID blocker for a cephalometric cassette, the blocker should be ordered so that the practitioner’s information is in the normal left to right order. The patient’s information can be written or typed on the front, lead side, of the label. Once again, the placement of the blocker should be in an area where it will not interfere with the radiographic image. The blocker should be placed on the side of the cassette facing the tubehead and the patient. A good location is where the posterior of the patient’s head would be exposed on the film. The blocker can be placed in either a horizontal or vertical position. If the cassette is to be used for both lateral and AP-PA views, take extra precaution in placement so as not to interfere with the radiographic image.