Operation Manual

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.