Assessing the Organ Dose in Diagnostic Imaging with Digital Tomosynthesis System Using TLD100H Dosimeters

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging Physics
• Radiation Dosimetry

Background:

• Digital tomosynthesis (DTS) offers advanced 3D visualization for improved diagnostic accuracy in breast and lung imaging.
• Increased imaging capabilities of DTS raise concerns regarding patient exposure to ionizing radiation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess organ dose variations during digital tomosynthesis (DTS) using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs).
• To compare radiation doses between DTS and traditional RX imaging modes.

Main Methods:

• Utilized TLD100H thermoluminescent dosimeters to measure organ doses.
• Conducted experimental measurements in both DTS and traditional RX imaging modes.
• Investigated the energy and angular dependence of TLD100H for accurate dose assessment.

Main Results:

• Lung doses in DTS were approximately 3.21 mGy (left) and 3.32 mGy (right), consistent with literature.
• RX mode yielded significantly lower lung doses at 0.33 mGy.
• Heart dose during DTS was measured at 2.81 mGy.

Conclusions:

• TLD100H dosimetry is reliable for assessing radiation exposure during DTS.
• Optimizing imaging protocols is crucial to minimize patient radiation doses.
• Collaboration is needed to establish best practices for patient safety in diagnostic imaging.