Prediction of Radiation Risks in Paediatric Micturating Cystourethrography

Abstract

Paediatrics and children have been recognized that they have a higher risk of developing cancer from the irradiation than adults (two to three times). Therefore, increased attention has been directed towards the dose to the patient. Micturating cystourethrography (MCUG) is a commonly used fluoroscopic procedure in children and commonly used to detect the vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) and show urethral and bladder abnormalities. This study aims to determine the ESD, gonadal dose, effective dose and relevant radiogenic risks associated with pediatric patients undergoing MCUG. The study was carried out in Soba University hospital, Khartoum. The entrance surface dose (ESD) was determined by thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) for 33 children. Furthermore, the surface dose was evaluated for the co-patient, who helps in support and comfort of the children during examination. The mean fluoroscopy time and number of radiographs during MCUG were 2.8 min and 5 images, respectively. The average ESD value was 5.51 mGy. The effective dose for patients was 0.22 mSv. The radiation dose to the patients is well within established safety limits, in the light of the current practice. Furthermore, the co-patient should put on a lead wrap-around protective apron, since he/she is not facing the scattered radiation. We believe that the available formulae to evaluate effective dose to patients and co-patients.