Evaluation of Radiation Exposure in Pediatric Patients for Minimizing Radiation-Induced Risks in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Abstract
Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the radiation dose received by pediatric patients (PPs) during lumbar-sacral spine (LS spine) imaging, review current imaging practices, identify potential risks, and promote radiation safety by adhering to pediatric-specific dose optimization protocols. Methods: The entrance surface dose (ESD) was calculated using five different mathematical formulas, and direct measurements were obtained with a dose-area product (DAP) meter during LS spine imaging of PPs. Results: The lowest mean ESD during lumbar spine imaging was observed in pediatric patients aged 1–5 years, measured at 0.25 mGy or 0.48 mGy·cm². Conversely, the highest mean ESD was recorded in the 10–15-year age group for the same projection, reaching 1.05 mGy or 0.89 mGy·cm². These values were derived from mathematical formulas and DAP meter measurements. Conclusion: Radiation dose assessment should be performed for every medical imaging procedure using appropriate dosimetry equipment or validated methods. This is essential to optimize radiation exposure in pediatric patients while maintaining diagnostic image quality.
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