Patient and personnel exposure during CT fluoroscopy-guided interventional procedures

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiological Sciences
• Imaging Technology

Background:

• Computed tomographic (CT) fluoroscopy is increasingly used for interventional procedures.
• Estimating patient dose and personnel exposure is crucial for radiation safety.
• Understanding scatter radiation is essential for minimizing exposure risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify patient dose and personnel exposure during CT fluoroscopy using phantom measurements.
• To provide essential dose information to users for radiation safety.
• To recommend effective methods for reducing radiation exposure.

Main Methods:

• Surface dose was measured using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD) and CT pencil chambers on a dosimetric phantom.
• Scatter radiation exposure was assessed at various distances from the phantom.
• The impact of lead drapes on scatter exposure was evaluated.

Main Results:

• Phantom surface dose rates varied from 2.3 to 10.4 mGy/sec.
• Scatter exposure rates at 10 cm and 1 m were 27 and 1.2 microGy/sec, respectively.
• Lead drapes reduced scatter exposure by up to 71% at 10 cm and 14% at 60 cm.

Conclusions:

• CT fluoroscopy can result in significant radiation exposure to patients and staff.
• Optimizing CT scanning parameters and reducing fluoroscopy time can lower radiation doses.
• Lead drapes are effective in substantially reducing scatter radiation exposure to personnel.