What modification can improve visibility of the upper thoracic spine if it is overexposed in a radiograph?

Using a compensating (wedge) filter is an effective modification to improve the visibility of the upper thoracic spine in a radiograph that has been overexposed. A compensating filter is specifically designed to even out the density of the image by accommodating anatomical variations in thickness or density. In this context, the wedge filter will help reduce the intensity of the x-ray beam on the areas that are overexposed while allowing for adequate exposure on the denser regions. This results in a more balanced image, which enhances the visualization of the structures in the upper thoracic spine, avoiding excessive brightness that can obscure critical details.

In contrast, other options may not directly address the issue of overexposure. Decreasing the exposure time can lead to underexposure and loss of image quality. Changing the patient position might not target the specific problem of overexposure and could potentially create new imaging challenges. While increasing the kVp can enhance penetration and improve contrast, in cases of overexposure, it might exacerbate the issue rather than resolve it. Thus, the use of a compensating filter is the most appropriate choice for enhancing the visibility of the thoracic spine in this situation.