Erschienen in:
09.02.2024 | RESEARCH
Our estimates of neonatal radiation exposure fall short of reality
verfasst von:
Michelle Toscan, Breno Fauth de Araújo, Júlio César Martini, Rafaela Ravazio, Vandréa Carla de Souza
Erschienen in:
European Journal of Pediatrics
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Ausgabe 4/2024
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Abstract
The purpose of this study is to evaluate radiation exposure in newborns undergoing imaging tests during the first 30 days of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) hospitalization. A retrospective cohort study was conducted from November 2018 to April 2019 with newborns admitted to the NICU. Thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD-100™) measured radiation emitted during imaging exams over 1 month, with a comparison between measured and estimated radiation. The cohort exhibited a median gestational age of 33.0 (31.0, 37.0) weeks, a median birth weight of 1840 (1272, 2748) g, and a median length of stay of 25.5 (11.7, 55.0) days. Eighty-four patients underwent 314 imaging tests, with an estimated radiation dose (ERD) per patient of 0.116 mSv and a measured radiation dose (MDR) of 0.158 mSv. ERD consistently underestimated MDR, with a mean difference of −0.043 mSv (−0.049 to −0.036) in the Bland-Altman analysis. The regression equation was as follows: difference MRD – ERD = −1.7 × (mean (MRD + ERD)) + 0.056. The mean estimated radiation dose per exam was 0.030 mSv, and the chest X-rays accounted for 63.26% of total exams. The median number of radiographic incidences per patient was 2 (1, 4), with 5 patients undergoing three or more exams in a single day.
Conclusion: Radiation exposure in these newborns was underestimated, emphasizing the need for awareness regarding associated risks and strict criteria for requesting radiological exams. Lung ultrasound is a radiation-free and effective option in managing respiratory diseases in newborns, reducing the reliance on chest X-rays.
What is Known: • Radiation used in diagnostic exams is not risk-free. • Radiation risk is much higher in small Infants due to the exposure area and the prolonged expectance of life. |
What is New: • Radiation exposure is underestimated in the neonatal population. • The study found a mean radiation exposure in neonates about 5% of the mean annual dose in the general population. |