Determination of a safe radiation distance from a 16-slice multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) scan machine

The objective of this study is to determine the location with the lowest radiation levels inside the CT scan room while performing examinations using a 16-slice multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) scanner. This was an analytical, experimental study taking radiation dose measurements using a dosimeter placed one location at a time using a clock-face pattern with 1-m intervals during a simulated CT-guided biopsy procedure. A total of 51 dose measurements were taken. The lowest radiation dose at 1 m is at the 9:00 position, then at the 3:00 position. The lowest radiation dose at 2 m is at the 9:00 position. The doses in these three positions do not have a statistical difference, but are significantly lower than the rest of the doses in other positions. The dose of radiation in a CT scan room is dependent on the distance and direction of the radiation source. If medical personnel need to stay inside the room during procedures, the safer distance from the radiation source was 1 and 2 m away at the 9:00 position and 1 m away at the 3:00 position, which are on the sides of the CT scanner.