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X-ray field size and patient dosimetry
Radiologic Technology
|November 21, 2013
Summary
Reducing x-ray field size in lumbar spine imaging significantly lowers patient dose, especially at the beam
Area of Science:
- Radiologic Technology
- Medical Physics
- Radiation Safety
Background:
- Collimation is a critical radiation safety practice for radiologic technologists.
- Proper collimation reduces irradiated tissue volume, lowering patient exposure and enhancing image quality.
- This study examines the dosimetric impact of reduced x-ray field sizes during lumbar spine radiography.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of decreasing x-ray field size on patient dosimetry.
- To quantify radiation dose changes in the abdominal region during lumbar spine imaging with reduced collimation.
Main Methods:
- An anthropomorphic phantom was used to simulate patient dosimetry.
- Thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) chips measured radiation exposure in the abdominal region.
- X-ray field size was reduced from 14x17 inches to 8x17 inches, with adjusted mAs.
Main Results:
- TLDs near the lumbar spine showed no significant dose change.
- TLDs near the lateral edges of the reduced field received over 60% lower radiation exposure (P < .001).
Conclusions:
- Radiologic technologists must diligently limit x-ray field size to the region of interest.
- Effective collimation is essential for minimizing patient radiation exposure in lumbar spine radiography.
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