Radiation risk from medical imaging

Tests and Radiation Amounts

FLAT FILMS (mrad)

Low-dose

Head <1

C-spine <1

Thracic spine <1

CXR <1

Extrem <1

High-dose

L-spine <1250

Pelvis <350

Hip <450

IVP <900

Urethrocyst <1500

KUB <500

CT (1cm slices)

Head <50

Chest <1000

Upper abd <3000

Lower abd <9000

ANGIO

Cerebral <100

Cardiac cath <500

Aortography <100

V/Q scan <215

(class C injectable technetium, xenon even safer)

Pregnancy

Greatest risk during organogenesis (8-12wk)

IV contrast not teratogenic (class B)

PO contrast not absorbed

EXPOSURE RISK (mrads)

<5,000 = safe

~10,000 = small risk childhood CA

~15,000^ = 6% chance mental retard

<3% chance childhood CA

^Considered max

Always use sheild when possible

Source

3/29/06 DONALDSON (adapted from Rosen)