Radiation dose assessment on operator during the dental postmortem procedure using handheld radiograph system

Area of Science:

• Forensic Odontology
• Radiological Protection

Background:

• Portable handheld X-ray devices are increasingly used in forensic odontology for postmortem dental examinations.
• Concerns exist regarding operator radiation exposure in mortuary settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess radiation dose to the eye lens and fingers of operators using the NOMAD™ Pro handheld X-ray device.
• To compare estimated doses with International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) recommended limits.

Main Methods:

• NanoDot™ OSL dosimeters were placed on operators' eyes and fingers during 80 postmortem dental procedures.
• Dose analysis was performed using a MicroStar reader, with corrections for background and calibration.
• Equivalent yearly doses were calculated and compared to ICRP limits.

Main Results:

• The estimated annual radiation dose to the eye lens was 1.34 mSv/yr (range 0.56-6.57).
• The estimated annual radiation dose to the fingers was 1.52 mSv/yr (range 0.40-5.51).
• Doses to both eyes and fingers were within ICRP recommended limits, with slightly higher exposure to fingers.

Conclusions:

• Portable X-ray devices like the NOMAD™ Pro can be used safely in forensic odontology.
• Operator radiation exposure remains low and within safe limits during postmortem dental examinations.
• Continuous safe use requires adherence to monitoring and safety protocols.