Innovative Bioplastic-Lead Composites for Radiation Dose Reduction in Femur Examinations: Optimizing Portrait and Diagonal Detector Positions Through Image and Anatomical Analysis

Radiation is essential in medical diagnostics but poses health risks, necessitating effective shielding to minimize exposure. This research evaluates cassava starch-based bioplastic-lead as an alternative radiation shielding material in femur radiography using Anteroposterior (AP) and Lateral projections with portrait and diagonal detector positions. Bioplastic samples with a 45:55 ratio of cassava starch and lead acetate were tested on a preserved human femur with and without shielding. Image processing using the Gaussian High Pass Filter (GHPF) method and analysis with Contrast to Noise Ratio (CNR) and Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR) were conducted to assess image quality. Results showed that lead bioplastics achieved 49.4% radiation absorption, with optimal anatomical visualization at cut-off frequencies of 5 and 10, while higher frequencies led to image distortions resembling osteoporosis. The best CNR and PSNR values confirmed improved image contrast while maintaining diagnostic accuracy. This research demonstrates that lead bioplastic effectively reduces radiation dose while preserving image quality, making it a promising alternative shielding material for medical imaging applications