User Manual

 For system operation, ΑΕC must be used carefully, preferably use

manual technique setting, applying lower doses.

 If possible, use high kVp techniques.

Positioning the pediatric patient: Pediatric patients are not as likely as adults to

understand the need to remain still during the procedure. Therefore it makes

sense to provide aids to maintaining stable positioning. It is strongly

recommended the use of immobilizing devices such as bean bags and

restraint systems (foam wedges, adhesive tapes, etc.) to avoid the need of

repeating exposures due to the movement of the pediatric patients. Whenever

possible use techniques based on the lowest exposure times.

Shielding: We recommend you provide extra shielding of radiosensitive organs

or tissues such as eyes, gonads and thyroid glands. Applying a correct

collimation will help to protect the patient against excessive radiation as well.

Please review the following scientific literature regarding pediatric

radiosensitivity: GROSSMAN, Herman. “Radiation Protection in Diagnostic

Radiography of Children”. Pediatric Radiology, Vol. 51, (No. 1): 141--144,

January, 1973: http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/reprint/51/1/141.

Technique factors: You should take steps to reduce technique factors to the

lowest possible levels consistent with good image acquisition.

For example if your adult abdomen settings are: 70--85 kVp, 200--400 mA,

15--80 mAs, consider starting at 65--75 kVp, 100--160 mA, 2.5--10 mAs for a

pediatric patient. Whenever possible use high kVp techniques and large SID

(Source Image Distance).

Summary:

• Image only when there is a clear medical benefit.

• Image only the indicated area.

• Use the lowest amount of radiation for adequate imaging based on size

of the child (reducing tube output -- kVp and mAs).

• Try to use always short exposure times, large SID values and

immobilizing devices.

• Avoid multiple scans and use alternative diagnostic studies (such as

ultrasound or MRI) when possible.