Informed use of medical radiation in diagnostic imaging

Abstract

Examinations that use medical ionizing radiation consisting of radiography, fluoroscopy, computed tomography, and nuclear imaging are essential tools in healthcare. This recognition however is accompanied by the risks of radiation which at doses very much greater than used in diagnostic imaging has known biological effects. The potential risk at diagnostic levels of radiation is the stochastic effect of cancer. Because of the connotations of the term radiation, doses and risks are often misunderstood by patients/caregivers and referring providers. This results in the “safety” aspect of radiation safety and quality often being the prevailing focus. In order to address the growing accountability of the imaging team, experts must understand doses delivered and what is known about risks, and develop a practice based on the tenets of radiation protection relevant to medical use: justification and optimization. This practice should include a dose-monitoring program. In addition, one should be able to have conversations across many different levels of understanding that are balanced and informed with respect to content, and appropriately delivered.