The hidden dangers of scatter radiation

Medical imaging techniques like x-rays, CT scans, and fluoroscopy have become essential diagnostic tools, but they also come with a hidden risk: scatter radiation. This secondary radiation, produced when the primary beam interacts with the patient’s body, can expose both medical staff to potentially harmful ionising radiation. Unfortunately, the dangers of scatter radiation are often overlooked, despite their significant implications for health and safety.

The mechanics of scatter radiation

When a beam of radiation passes through the body, some of the photons interact with the tissues and are scattered in random directions. This scatter radiation can then go on to expose other parts of the patient’s body, as well as medical personnel in the vicinity. The amount of scatter radiation produced depends on factors like the energy of the primary beam, the size and density of the patient, and the geometry of the imaging setup.

The risks of scatter radiation exposure

Scatter radiation exposure can have both short-term and long-term health consequences. Short-term effects can include skin reddening, hair loss, and even radiation burns in extreme cases. Long-term risks include an increased likelihood of developing cancer, cataracts and CV disease^*1 especially for those who are repeatedly exposed over the course of their careers.

Broader implications and recommendations

The issue of scatter radiation in medical imaging has far-reaching implications for staff health and wellbeing. By raising awareness of this often-overlooked risk and promoting the adoption of effective mitigation strategies, we can help ensure that the benefits of medical imaging are maximised while the dangers of scatter radiation are minimised.

Key recommendations include:

1. Increased training and education for medical professionals on the risks of scatter radiation: by equipping healthcare providers with a better understanding of the dangers of scatter radiation, they can make more informed decisions about equipment usage and take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and their patients.
2. Ongoing monitoring and reporting of scatter radiation levels to identify and address hotspots: regular monitoring and data collection can help identify areas or procedures with higher-than-average scatter radiation levels, allowing for targeted interventions and process improvements.
3. Mandatory use of scatter-reducing equipment in all medical imaging facilities: widespread adoption of scatter-reducing shields, collimators, and other specialised equipment can significantly lower the risk of scatter radiation exposure for both patients and staff.

 ALARA principle

All exposures to ionising radiation of any member of the public and of the population shall be kept as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA).

The three major principles to assist with maintaining doses ‘As Low As Reasonably Achievable’ are:

1. Time
2. Distance
3. Shielding

Advances in shielding with technology such as EggNest have drastically improved what is achievable in lowering exposure to scatter radiation. The system can reduce health care workers scatter radiation exposure by up to 97% ^*2

*1. Occupational Health Risks in Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory Workers

Maria Grazia Andreassi 1, Emanuela Piccaluga 2, Giulio Guagliumi 2, Maurizio Del Greco 2, Fiorenzo Gaita 2, Eugenio Picano 2 (2016)

 *2. A New Device to Markedly Reduce Cardiac Cath Lab Radiation Levels

Wilson, R, Gainor, J, Valeti, U. et al. TCT-248. JACC. 2018 Sep

This news story has been sponsored by the companies concerned and does not represent the views or opinions of RAD Magazine.