Radiation Exposition of preparations of radiopharmaceuticals in routinely use, measured with optical-stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosimeters

Abstract

Because of the new regulation of the radiation protection in Germany in 2018 (Strahlenschutzverordnung) it was meaningful to calculate an overview of the radiation exposition of the personal in the radiopharmaceutical "Hotlab". The regulation demands that the radiation exposition must be minimized, documented and reduced to an optimized level. In the Klinik und Poliklinik für Nuklearmedizin at the University Hospital of Dresden measurements were done with optical-stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosimeters. Light protected OSL dosimeters were positioned on the fingertips (thumb, forefinger and middle finger) of both hands and on the forehead. Before use the OSL dosimeters were calibrated. The exposition of the hands was measured at three different days in the preparation lab: 99mTc preparation in the daily routine, syringes application for radiosynoviorthesis (RSO) and 90Y Sirtex particles and for preparation of 177Lu and 68Ga radiopharmaceuticals. A relatively high exposition was seen after 99mTc preparations because of the quantity of preparations and syringes. Handling of syringes for RSO lead to an likewise raised exposition. The radiation exposition at preparation of 177Lu and 68Ga radiopharma-ceuticals depends on handling and use of modules. The exposition of the eye lenses was 0.02 mGy orlower and therefore not critical. But an appropriate radiation protection is necessary and a requirement for the most slightly radiation exposition. An optimized number of personal is necessary for preparation of radiopharmaceuticals in a "Hotlab" in nuclear medical facility. Therefore, the individual radiation exposition will be limited.