Evaluation of scattered radiation from fluoroscopy using small OSL dosimeters

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiological Protection
• Interventional Endoscopy

Background:

• Radiation exposure to the eye lens is a concern during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).
• Previous studies indicate lead curtains can reduce scatter radiation.
• Over-couch X-ray systems may increase radiation dose to staff compared to under-couch systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate scatter radiation levels during ERCP.
• To measure the effectiveness of a protective curtain in reducing scatter radiation.
• To assess the utility of optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) nanoDot dosimeters for point measurements of scatter radiation.

Main Methods:

• Utilized optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) nanoDot dosimeters for precise scatter radiation measurement.
• Measured radiation doses with and without a protective lead curtain at various heights.
• Correlated measurements obtained from nanoDot dosimeters with other personal OSL dosimeters.

Main Results:

• Without a protective curtain, maximum scatter radiation at 100 cm was 0.363 mGy.
• With a protective curtain, maximum scatter radiation at 100 cm decreased to 0.026 mGy.
• Protective curtains achieved a maximum scatter radiation reduction of approximately 93% at 100 cm and 97% at 150 cm.

Conclusions:

• Protective curtains are highly effective in reducing scatter radiation during ERCP procedures.
• OSL nanoDot dosimeters provide accurate point measurements for evaluating scatter radiation.
• Strong correlation exists between nanoDot and other personal OSL dosimeter measurements.