Assessment of lens absorbed dose by radiological technologists during mobile X-ray radiography: a comparison between computed radiography and flat panel detector systems.

Abstract

Mobile X-ray radiography is crucial for imaging patients with limited mobility; however, radiological technologists (RTs) may be positioned closer to patients and thus be at risk of harmful radiation doses owing to scattered radiation. As X-ray systems transitioned from digital computed radiography (CR) to flat panel detector (FPD) systems, we studied the RTs' eye lens and neck radiation doses over 2 years. Three RTs participated in measurements using a CR system, and five RTs participated in measurements using a FPD system. We measured radiation exposure with neck dosimeters (glass badges) and lens dosimeters (DOSIRIS®). The results showed a 66% reduction in lens dose after switching from the CR system to the FPD system. Comparisons of specific RT members also revealed significantly lower doses for the FPD system than for the CR system. Two main factors contributed to this decrease: the FPD system used a virtual grid instead of a scatter removal grid, and the RTs' awareness of radiation exposure increased with experience. Although the lens dose was significantly reduced, RTs should still wear protective eyewear and equipment when frequent imaging is expected or when working close to patients.