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Dosimetry and Medical Radiation Physics

E2.10.03 Dosimetry in X-ray diagnostic radiology: An international Code of Practice

Project Officer

Frantisek Pernicka

Duration

2000-2004

Background

Medical ionizing radiation sources give by far the largest contribution to the population dose from man-made sources. About 90% of this contribution is due to diagnostic x-rays. As long as image quality is not affected, it is sensible to reduce the patient dose and it is generally recognized that even a 10% reduction is a worthwhile objective. A key stage in this process is the standardization of the procedures for dose measurement in the hospital. It is hoped that by focussing on dose minimization, there may be a synergistic effect on image quality. Approximately 40% of SSDLs are currently involved in calibration of ionization chambers for use in diagnostic radiology. At present, the manner in which calibrations are performed at SSDLs is not co-ordinated. Many use different radiation qualities and standards, some of which may be unsuitable. Methods to perform such calibrations are not yet completely developed. They need recommendations on the properties of the dosimeters to be used as secondary standards for dosimetric measurements to be performed for the various clinical diagnostic modalities. In light of the above facts, the development of a Code of Practice (CoP) for dosimetry in diagnostic radiology is needed. This will form the basis for the necessary standardization of practice at the SSDLs and in clinics.

Objective

The objective of the CRP is to develop a Code of Practice for dosimetry in x-ray diagnostic radiology that will cover both the calibration of instruments at the SSDLs and the measurement of dose in the hospital. The document is expected to become an indispensable part of any quality assurance programme in x-ray diagnostics in Member States. To achieve this goal, various parallel research activities will be conducted within the CRP. They may be divided into five basic groups: (i) analysis of all relevant international and national standards and protocols, (ii) identification of the dosimetry requirements for various x-ray diagnostic procedures, (iii) laboratory verification of the results of analysis (when needed) and preparation of necessary dosimetry data, (iv) extending the IAEA dosimetry laboratory's beam qualities to cover the whole range commonly used in diagnostic radiology, and (v) writing the document.

Activities

Reports