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Radiation dose from medical imaging: a primer for emergency physicians
The Western Journal of Emergency Medicine
|August 18, 2012
Summary
Medical imaging, particularly computed tomography, is a major source of ionizing radiation exposure. While beneficial, certain emergency department scenarios warrant discussions on radiation risks versus benefits to minimize patient exposure.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Physics
- Public Health
Background:
- Medical imaging constitutes the majority of ionizing radiation exposure for the U.S. population.
- A significant portion of medical imaging is ordered within emergency departments.
- Computed tomography (CT) is a primary focus due to its substantial radiation dose.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of radiation doses from medical imaging, with an emphasis on CT.
- To review recent literature on reducing unnecessary radiation exposure in emergency departments.
- To inform emergency physicians about radiation risks associated with medical imaging.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review was conducted up to the calendar year 2010.
- The review focused on articles related to emergency departments and radiation exposure.
- Analysis of clinical scenarios where radiation risks might outweigh benefits was performed.
Main Results:
- In most clinical situations, the benefits of medical imaging outweigh radiation risks.
- Three specific adult emergency department scenarios were identified where cancer risks may exceed benefits: pulmonary embolism rule-out, flank pain, and inflammatory bowel disease-related recurrent abdominal pain.
- Physician-patient discussions regarding risks and benefits are recommended for these specific scenarios.
Conclusions:
- Emergency physicians require a fundamental understanding of radiation doses and risks from advanced imaging.
- Protocols and guidelines to limit unnecessary patient radiation exposure are crucial for future research and practice.
- Balancing diagnostic benefits against potential long-term radiation-induced cancer risks is essential in emergency medicine.
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