Estimated operator exposure for hand holding portable X-ray units during imaging of the equine distal extremity.

The key purpose of this research study is to evaluate the extent of exposure to surface radiation leakage by operators utilizing handheld portable X-ray units for imaging of horse’s limbs, especially lower limbs. The study seeks to provide measurable results, highlighting any potential dangers posed to the operators and suggesting ways in which this exposure can be minimized.

Methodology

• Imaging exposure was performed at a standardized setting of 80 kVp (Kilovolt peak) and 7.5 mAs (milliampere-second), repeated over ten instances.
• Radiation leakage was measured at every surface of the portable X-ray unit.
• An equine (horse) cadaver limb was used as a real-world model to generate a scattering of radiation for different angles and positions. This included the lateral carpus, lateral foot, and navicular region from different views.
• Recording devices, specifically a Pancake Ion Chamber, was positioned at the handle and at a simulated collar position to estimate the occupational exposure for operators.

Results

• The average hand and collar dose measured was 0.471 and 0.327 mR/exposure, respectively.
• Exposure measurements were also performed behind a 0.5 mm lead equivalent apron and within a more than 0.5 mm lead equivalent glove.
• With the use of lead shielding (apron and glove), the primary beam was attenuated to 96.9 and 99.2%, respectively.
• The use of lead shielding drastically reduced the average hand and collar exposures to 0.0038 and 0.0101 mR/exposure, respectively.

Conclusions

• The study effectively measured the potential exposure to radiation for operators using handheld portable X-ray units.
• The study found that the theoretical occupational exposure limits for radiation were reached at the collar (whole-body exposure) before the hand (extremity).
• The use of lead shielding drastically reduces exposure, proving its essential value in protecting operators from harmful radiation.