Measurement of Radiation Dose in Gastrointestinal System Examinations

Abstract

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and barium studies rely on the use of ionizing radiation but risks to operator and patient associated with radiation exposure were not certain. During those procedures, fluoroscopic and radiographic images are taken with paramedical and medical staff near the patients. Even if the level of exposure to X-rays during ERCP is low, it is important to stress that it is a chronic exposure that can lead to potentially unhealthy condition. The aim of this study was to estimate the radiation dose received by personnel performing fluoroscopic procedures and patient under it , mainly in ERCP and barium study in gastro-intestinal department and to estimate the risks associated with those procedures . 55 procedures of ERCP and 33 investigations of barium studies monitored by using TLD chips mounted on the patient and examiners (doctor, x ray technologist and nurse). The result showed that the patient effective dose in ERCP 2.01 mSv and 0.22 mSv ,0.14 mSv ,0.13 mSv for doctor ,x ray technologist and nurse respectively and for barium studies the patient effective dose were 0.2 ,0.35 ,1.4 mSv per procedure for barium swallow ,meal and enema respectively