Paediatric doses from diagnostic radiology in Victoria

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiology
• Radiation Protection

Background:

• Diagnostic radiology procedures are essential for paediatric healthcare.
• Variability in radiation doses to children from these procedures necessitates investigation.
• Optimizing radiation doses in paediatric radiology is crucial for minimizing long-term risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure and analyze entrance skin doses in paediatric patients undergoing common diagnostic radiology examinations.
• To identify factors contributing to dose variations across different facilities and age groups.
• To propose evidence-based guidance levels for paediatric radiology.

Main Methods:

• Entrance skin doses were measured in air for standard paediatric age groups (1, 5, 10, 15 years).
• Measurements were conducted across 29 hospitals and private radiology practices in Victoria.
• Standard exposure factors for procedures like chest, abdomen, pelvis, lumbar spine, and skull X-rays were utilized.

Main Results:

• A significant range of doses was observed for each procedure and age group.
• Factors influencing dose variability were identified, highlighting the need for standardization.
• Third quartile values of measured skin entrance doses were determined for proposed guidance levels.

Conclusions:

• Current paediatric radiology practices exhibit considerable dose variation.
• Recommended guidance levels based on third quartile doses can aid in dose optimization.
• Implementation of these levels can enhance radiation protection for children undergoing diagnostic imaging.