Exposure to X-rays during small bowel biopsies in children

Peroral small bowel biopsy is a decisive step in the diagnosis of coeliac disease and is performed frequently. The patient's exposure to ionizing radiation during fluoroscopic control therefore deserves consideration. Compared to data in the literature, the biopsy method employed at the University Children's Hospital in Vienna achieves a markedly shorter duration of fluoroscopy. These values were registered during 1039 biopsies. In 439 examinations the exposure area products were also documented In 10 consecutive biopsies additional measurements were carried out by lithium fluoride thermoluminescence dosimeters attached to the patient. Expert biopsy-technique with precise and thoughtful use of modern fluoroscopes on the one hand, and critical self-control by routine documentation of the exposure area product and duration of fluoroscopy on the other can markedly reduce the patient's exposure to X-rays.