Open AccessAs low as reasonably achievable: Methods for reducing radiation exposure during the management of renal and ureteral stones
Author(s) -
Fernando Cabrera,
Glenn M. Preminger,
Michael E. Lipkin
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
indian journal of urology/indian journal of urology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.333
H-Index - 30
eISSN - 1998-3824
pISSN - 0970-1591
DOI - 10.4103/0970-1591.124208
Subject(s) - medicine , fluoroscopy , radiation exposure , radiology , ionizing radiation , radiation dose , modalities , medical physics , modality (human–computer interaction) , nuclear medicine , irradiation , social science , physics , human–computer interaction , sociology , computer science , nuclear physics
Imaging for urolithiasis has evolved over the past 30 years. Currently, non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) remains the first line imaging modality for the evaluation of patients with suspected urolithiasis. NCCT is a dominant source of ionizing radiation for patients and one of its major limitation. However, new low dose NCCT protocols may help to reduce the risk. Fluoroscopy use during operating room (OR) surgical procedures can be a substantial source of radiation for patients, OR staff and surgeons. It is important to consider the amount of radiation patients are exposed to from fluoroscopy during operative interventions for stones. Radiation reduction can be accomplished by appropriate selection of imaging studies and multiple techniques, which minimize the use of fluoroscopy whenever possible. The purpose of this manuscript is to review common imaging modalities used for diagnosing and management of renal and ureteral stones associated with radiation exposure. We also review alternatives and techniques to reduce radiation exposure.