Radiation Effective Doses to Adults Undergoing Modified Barium Swallow Studies

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Swallowing Disorders

Background:

• Modified Barium Swallow Studies (MBSSs) are crucial for diagnosing swallowing impairments and guiding treatment.
• MBSSs involve ionizing radiation, necessitating an understanding of associated radiation exposure.
• Accurate radiation dose data is vital for evidence-based clinical decision-making and patient counseling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine and report the average radiation dose from routine clinical MBSSs in adult patients.
• To provide data that aids clinicians and patients in assessing the risks versus benefits of MBSSs.
• To establish a benchmark for comparing MBSS radiation exposure to other medical and environmental sources.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 200 consecutive adult MBSS exams.
• Calculation of effective dose using kilovoltage (kV) and Kerma Area Product data.
• Examination of radiation doses across different imaging projections (lateral, PA).

Main Results:

• The average effective dose per MBSS exam was 0.32 ± 0.23 mSv.
• Lateral projection was used in 100% of exams; PA projections were used in approximately 72% (upper) and 25% (middle/lower).
• Average kVs ranged from 63 kV (lateral) to 94.3 kV (lower PA).

Conclusions:

• Routine adult MBSSs are confirmed as a low-dose examination.
• The findings support the continued use of MBSSs for obtaining critical information on swallow function.
• Adherence to ALARA principles and radiation safety protocols remains essential for all X-ray procedures, including MBSSs.