Effective dose estimation for pediatric upper gastrointestinal examinations using an anthropomorphic phantom set and metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) technology

Abstract

Using modern fluoroscopy equipment, the effective dose associated with the UGI examination in children ≤10 years at our institute is < 1 mSv. Estimations of effective dose associated with pediatric UGI examinations can be made for children up to the age of 10 using the DAP-normalized conversion factors provided in this study. These estimates can be further refined to reflect individual hospital examination protocols through the use of direct organ dose measurement using MOSFETs, which were shown to agree with Monte Carlo simulated doses.

Long-term burden of care and radiation exposure in survivors of esophageal atresia

“…the introduction of pulsed fluoroscopy capability). For the majority of studies and procedures, dose assignment was based on institutional data applicable to the time period of our study [6][7][8][9][10]. Published values from the pediatric radiology literature [11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19] were used for the small number of examinations for which institutional data were not available.…”

Protecting sensitive patient groups from imaging using ionizing radiation: effects during pregnancy, in fetal life and childhood

“…First, fluoroscopy time should be limited. Pulsed fluoroscopy should be used and, in many instances, 3-8 pulses per second are adequate for guidance and monitoring of a procedure [33]. Still images acquired using last-image hold should be used to review findings instead of live fluoroscopy (repeated exposure).…”

Incidence of clinically silent malrotation detected on barium swallow examination in children

“…This accordingly contributes to an equivalent increase in the risk of cancer to the patient. We acknowledge that with newer fluoroscopic devices and pulse fluoroscopy technique that radiation doses continue to decrease; however, even allowing for improvements in technology, the ALARA principle still stands and it is important to continue to minimise radiation dose where possible. In our study, 13% of patients had already had a normal DJ flexure position confirmed on previous upper GI study; this emphasises the importance of reviewing previous imaging to ensure that unnecessary repeated examinations are not performed.…”