Measuring and visualizing scattered x-rays using red-green-blue (RGB) heat maps during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the intensive care unit.

Abstract

Objective: This study investigated the continuous risks of scattered radiation associated with a series of procedures-from extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) cannulation through to enteral feeding tube insertion-in an intensive care unit (ICU) setting by visualizing the dose distribution using a red-green-blue (RGB) color map.

Results: The scattered radiation doses were measured at 80 points around a tissue-equivalent phantom using calibrated nanoDot dosimeters, and an RGB color map was generated to visualize the dose intensity. Radiation doses near the X-ray source reached 783.6 µSv/hour at 50 cm, exceeding annual public exposure limits within 1 h. These findings emphasize the importance of using appropriate radiation protection equipment, suggesting that distance is a key factor in reducing the ICU exposure risk. They also offer practical guidance for planners involved in radiation safety management in hospital settings.