[Measurement of Average Glandular Dose Using Multiparameter X-ray Measuring Instrument]

The average glandular dose (AGD) is very important in the quality control of mammography. The AGD calculation requires measurements of half-value layer (HVL) and entrance surface air karma (ESAK). The HVL is measured by the Al-attenuation method using a non-energy-dependent ionization dosimeter. As the Al-attenuation method performs measurements using a succession of added filters, it requires lots of X-ray exposure and measurement time. In recent years, measuring instruments that can measure tube voltage, irradiation time, exposure dose, HVL, and other factors, at the same time, using one shot of X-rays have been developed. In this study, measurement of the AGD using multiparameter X-ray measuring instrument about rhodium (Rh) and tungsten (W) anode X-ray tubes. A comparative study was performed using standard ionization dosimeters. The error in measurements was as follows: HVL 5.8%, ESAK 3.3%, and AGD 2.9%. The AGD measurement using a multiparameter X-ray measuring instrument is simple and can significantly reduce the measurement time while maintaining accuracy.