Radiation dosage to medical personnel.

Abstract

A survey was made to evaluate exposure to those physicians and dentists employing radiation. Many medical personnel other than radiologists employ radiation such as the general practitioner, surgeon, urologist, and the dentist. It is emphasised that among the various specialty groups varied factors of kilovoltage, current filter, technique, etc., will result in completely different values of exposure both to the patient and worker. In the National Bureau of Standards Handbook X-ray Protection, recommendations as to total filter in the diagnostic x-ray beam are made. The 2.5 mm of aluminum recommended in medical- diagnostic units greatly reduces the exposure to patients and personnel. The use of lead-rubber aprons during fluoroscopy is also recommended. This paper presents figures on protection afforded by such aprons. Other specialists can reduce their exposure considerdbly by keeping their hands out of the primary beam. Dentists sometimes hold film in place. By avoiding this procedure and by utilizing a total of 1.5 mm of aluminum in the beam, they can reduce exposure to themselves and to the patient. Exposure values are presented for different techniques employed by specialists., A summary of film badge data is presented. (auth)