Radiation exposure in X-ray examinations
August 2, 2022 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Fanni Raab
Dear Doctor,
My name is Anna Raab and I am reaching out to you because I am concerned about the radiation exposure during X-ray examinations. In the past, I have had to undergo several X-ray examinations, both for diagnosing bone fractures and for monitoring tumor treatments. I am worried about the potential risks associated with repeated exposure to X-rays.
I wonder if there are ways to reduce radiation exposure during X-ray examinations, especially since I may need such examinations regularly. Are there alternative imaging techniques that cause less radiation exposure? Or are there special techniques that can minimize radiation exposure without compromising the quality of the images?
I want to ensure that my health is not jeopardized by the X-ray examinations, while still receiving the necessary diagnostics and treatment. Can you provide me with information and recommendations on how to minimize radiation exposure during future X-ray examinations? I would greatly appreciate your support and advice.
Thank you in advance.
Sincerely,
Anna Raab
Dear Anna Raab,
Thank you for your question and your trust in my expertise as a radiologist. It is understandable that you are concerned about the radiation exposure from X-ray examinations, especially if you have already had several such examinations in the past. It is important to be aware of the potential risks of repeated exposure to X-rays and to take measures to keep the radiation exposure as low as possible.
First of all, it is important to know that modern X-ray machines have advanced technologies that can significantly reduce radiation exposure compared to older machines. Radiation exposure is typically measured in millisieverts (mSv), and modern machines are able to produce high-resolution images with lower doses.
There are also alternative imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound examinations, which do not use ionizing radiation and therefore do not pose a radiation risk to the patient. In some cases, these procedures can be a good alternative to X-ray examinations, especially for the diagnosis of soft tissue injuries or other conditions that do not respond well to X-rays.
However, if X-ray examinations are unavoidable, there are special techniques that can minimize radiation exposure. These include the use of lead aprons or collars to protect adjacent organs from radiation, as well as adjusting the radiation dose to the individual needs and specific questions of the examination.
It is important to discuss your concerns about radiation exposure from X-ray examinations with your treating physician. Together, you can develop an individual strategy to keep the radiation exposure as low as possible without compromising the quality of the diagnosis.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you, and I am happy to answer any further questions you may have. Thank you for your attention and your responsible approach to your health.
Sincerely,
Fanni Raab
