engleski

The role of radiology technicians in radiation protection of children

Radiation protection depends on many factors. This study deals with the human factor, the radiology technicians. If all technical malfunctions are excluded they are responsible for the patient dose. Depending on their education and experience technicians perform X ray examinations with various end results: image quality, entrance surface dose, patient interaction etc. The study group of 60 children (for each of three technicians 20 children) was chosen that had a clinical indication for a chest X ray examination (standard PA radiogram). The age of the patients varied between 6-12 years, the weight between 20-50 kg and the height 110-150 cm. All parents were informed about the aim and the experimental details of the study. A Shimatzu X ray machine was used in all cases. Radiophotoluminescent (RPL) and thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD) were applied at the entrance of the beam in center of the X ray field to measure the entrance surface dose (ESD). The three differently experienced technicians were unaware of the point of the study. Parameters that were noted were the kV, mAs and the size of the field. The radiologists interpreting the radiogram, as well as the scientists interpreting the dose were blinded. The dosimetry results with both dosimetry systems show a good correlation of ESD as a function of mass body index (MBI) between two technicians. Doses were significantly higher for the third one. The ESD values varied between 0.05-0.5 mSv. This work show the importance of continues education and good teamwork for dose reduction. In a sequel study after educational interference with the same three technicians we hope to have results that would show a better dose reduction.

paediatric chest radiology; radiation protection of patients; TLD; RPL dosimetry

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