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Fluoroscopic radiation measurement in Saskatchewan
Journal of the Canadian Association of Radiologists
|June 1, 1981
Summary
A long-term fluoroscopic quality assurance program using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) identified significant variations in surface dose rates among Saskatchewan hospital units. This monitoring enabled timely corrections, ensuring patient safety and optimal radiation levels.
Area of Science:
- Medical Physics
- Radiology
- Radiation Safety
Background:
- Since 1976, Saskatchewan hospitals have utilized a mail-out thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) system for routine measurement of fluoroscopic surface dose rates.
- The program was initiated following recommendations from Saskatchewan radiologists to enhance quality assurance in diagnostic imaging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the long-term trends and variability of fluoroscopic surface dose rates in Saskatchewan hospitals.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the TLD monitoring program in identifying and rectifying excessive radiation dose levels.
Main Methods:
- A mail-out TLD system was employed, with measurements conducted every eight weeks across various hospital units.
- Data analysis focused on annual dose rates, identifying machines with significant output variations.
Main Results:
- The average annual surface dose rate across all units was 30.8 mGy/min.
- A substantial percentage of machines exhibited high variability: 30% varied by 100% or more, and 8% by 200% or more annually.
- One unit showed an extreme output increase of 800% over a year.
Conclusions:
- The TLD monitoring program has been instrumental in facilitating prompt corrective actions for excessive dose rates or the replacement of malfunctioning equipment.
- No statistically significant difference in surface dose rates was observed between manually controlled fluoroscopic units and those with automatic brightness control.