2023 Undergraduate Research Showcase

Title

The Effects of Thyroid and Gonadal Shielding During Radiographic Imaging

Document Type

Student Presentation

Presentation Date

4-21-2023

Faculty Sponsor

Natalie Mourant

Abstract

The practice of using lead shielding on patient’s during radiation procedures has been around since 1950 and is done with the intent to protect radiosensitive areas that are not in the anatomy of interest. Gonadal shielding has become a common practice when using radiation until most recently. As of late, shielding is becoming a demonstrated variable which has the potential to cause a higher level of scatter radiation and increased patient dose. The National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) released a statement in 2021 stating their support of the discontinuation of gonadal shielding while completing routine radiographic examinations of the abdominal and pelvic regions. As a radiographic technologist, it is essential to consider alternatives beyond discontinuation of overall shielding. The National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) found that a substantial amount of dose given to the gonadal ovaries is in fact caused by scatter radiation. Which leads us to this research project.

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