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Diagnostic medical exposures in the U.K
P C Shrimpton1, B F Wall, D Hart
1National Radiological Protection Board, Chilton, Didcot, U.K.
Summary
UK patient radiation exposure from diagnostic imaging is monitored. While conventional X-rays show dose reduction, increased computed tomography use requires ongoing radiation protection optimization.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Radiological Protection
- Public Health
Background:
- Patient exposure from diagnostic medical radiological procedures in the UK has been studied.
- Structured advice has been developed to optimize patient protection.
- Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) are established for common X-ray examinations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze patterns of patient exposure from diagnostic medical radiological procedures.
- To assess trends in patient doses from X-ray examinations.
- To understand practices in diagnostic nuclear medicine regarding radiopharmaceutical activity.
Main Methods:
- Conducting surveys to identify patterns of patient exposure.
- Developing structured advice for patient protection optimization.
- Establishing diagnostic reference levels for conventional X-ray examinations.
- Monitoring the application of computed tomography and its impact on doses.
- Reviewing practices in diagnostic nuclear medicine based on recommended activities.
Main Results:
- Reductions in individual and collective doses from some conventional X-ray procedures were observed.
- These dose reductions have been counteracted by the increasing use of computed tomography.
- Diagnostic nuclear medicine practices follow recommended maximum usual activities of radiopharmaceutical for specific procedures.
Conclusions:
- Ongoing efforts are needed to optimize patient protection in diagnostic imaging.
- The rise of computed tomography necessitates continued attention to radiation dose management.
- Standardized practices in nuclear medicine ensure appropriate radiopharmaceutical use.