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Radiation exposure from cervical spine radiographs
M Ingegno1, M Nahabedian, G T Tominaga
1Department of Surgery, University of California Irvine Medical Center, Orange 92668.
The American Journal of Emergency Medicine
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Hospital staff have no significant radiation exposure risk during cervical spine X-rays. Even with multiple images or during patient airway management, radiation levels are below detectable limits.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Cervical spine radiographs are crucial for diagnosing trauma in multiply injured patients.
- Concerns exist regarding radiation exposure for healthcare professionals during these procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively evaluate radiation exposure to hospital personnel during cervical spine radiography.
- To assess risks for staff managing patient airways or applying traction.
Main Methods:
- Digital dosimeters were used to measure radiation exposure on personnel's torsos.
- Measurements were taken during 41 cervical spine radiographs of 30 patients.
- The minimum detectable radiation exposure was one milliroentgen (mR).
Main Results:
- No measurable radiation exposure was detected for any personnel during any radiograph.
- Even multiple exposures (up to five) did not register on dosimeters.
- Radiation exposure was consistently below 1.0 mR per radiograph (P < .05).
Conclusions:
- Hospital personnel are not at significant risk of radiation exposure during cervical spine radiographs.
- Staff involved in patient airway management or traction are also protected.
- Current imaging protocols ensure occupational safety regarding radiation exposure.