At South Jersey Radiology, certain diagnostic and advanced imaging studies use small doses of radiation to assist with capturing high quality images. Here are the studies that use some form of radiation:
- X-rays
- Computed Tomography (CT)
- Interventional Procedures
- PET/ CT Imaging
- Nuclear Medicine Studies
- Screening & Diagnostic Mammographyz
Regulations
There are no regulatory limits on the cumulative amount of radiation a patient may receive from medical diagnostic X-ray studies.
The physician is the individual who determines what is medically necessary diagnostic testing based on clinical decisions. However, it is important to be aware of diagnostic testing that utilizes radiation. You can work with your physician to make informed decisions about radiation exposure.
- Average Annual Technologist Dose: 3.2 MSV
- Natural Background Radiation: 3.0 MSV
- Dental X-Rays (Panoramic): 0.01 MSV
- Chest X-Rays (Single View): 0.1 MSV
- Barium Enema: 7.0 MSV
- Abdominal CT Scan: 10.0 MSV
- PET/CT Scan: 14.0 MSV
Alara, Image Gently & Image Wisely
ALARA is an acronym for “As Low As Reasonably Achievable” as it pertains to radiation exposure. ALARA encompasses the use of safety techniques such as limiting the scan area to the region of interest, adjusting the technique according to body size and using lead to shield patients. The Image Gently campaign is an initiative of the Alliance for Radiation Safety in Pediatric Imaging focused on increasing awareness and seeking lower radiation doses when imaging children. The Image Wisely campaign is a campaign to increase physician, patient, and imaging technologist collaboration for increasing awareness and lowering radiation dose to all populations.
Our Commitment as an Imaging Leader
- All SJRA radiation-emitting equipment is evaluated by an independent medical physicist.
- We use Image Gently, Image Wisely, and ALARA principles to minimize dose.
- We follow the guidelines and protocols for radiation exposure that have been established by the FDA and the American College of Radiology (ACR).
- All SJRA diagnostic technologists are required to be registered with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
- We use weight and age based imaging for our CT scans.
- We are making providers, medical professionals, and patients more aware of the risks as well as the benefits of ionizing radiation.