To successfully reduce the radiation dose in radiology equipment, it should be approached from different angles. We can look at from four perspectives.
Physician education would be needed to establish an efficient ordering of the exam. Technologist education would be needed to limit the scan range and radiation accuracy.
There needs to be proper management of the dose protocol to limit the amount of radiation used. There needs to be an adequate implementation of image reconstruction software for improving image quality while reducing the radiation dose.
Through the employment of the best possible practices, the lowest percentile of radiation exposure in examinations can be obtained. Fortunately, there are a set of steps that can be taken that have been proven to reduce the radiation dose during medical imaging exams.
- The first step begins with awareness and education on the matter.
Fortunately for patients, many physicians and operating technologists are known to learn about the risks of radiation exposure and become thorough with the proper techniques and precautions that are needed for the safety of both the radiologist and the patient. Since radiation dose has become a popular topic in obtaining imaging exams, more techniques are being factored into training programs to determine the best way to address the problem. While there isn’t an exact method for reducing radiation dose besides obtaining equipment that are mainly known for providing lower radiation dose, awareness and education can help technologists determine the right protocols that can be taken to minimize radiation as much as possible.
- The second step would be to consider patient positioning.
By using the best techniques, the radiation dose can be minimized significantly. It was found that experts were able to reduce the dose of cervical spine exams through CT scanners by changing the position of the patient. Patients may have to pull on a strap which would make sure their shoulders are out of view from the lower cervical spine. Once conducted, radiation would only be needed to penetrate the neck and not the shoulders too. A few other instances, the dose may actually be increased slightly. However, this is done to offset the potential for having to call back a patient for retaking the scan which would involve full additional exposure. It would be a far better approach to assess the situation accurately the first time rather than have the patient back a second time. Learn More: https://pacifichealthusa.com/buy-medical-equipment/new-and-used-c-arm-machines/
- The third step involves understanding that technological improvements are essential.
There is currently a variety of equipment that offers the option of lower radiation dose in the instrument itself. Medical facilities that focus primarily on providing patients with lower radiation dosage can purchase these equipment.
While dose reduction is vital for ensuring patient satisfaction, it should also be understood that the amount of radiation used is negligible compared to the benefits that equipment with radiation may offer. However, if you do prefer low radiation dose equipment for your medical facility, we, at Pacific Healthcare Imaging offer a variety of low radiation imaging equipment in from prominent brands in the market. We also provide a range of other used and refurbished medical imaging equipment including used x ray equipment for sale, MRI machine for sale, and much more. Contact us at Pacific Healthcare Imaging now for more information!