The principles of dose limitation and the various means of dose reduction to the patient, including protection of the gonads

It is important to carry out only those X-ray examinations that will produce new information (see NRPB, 1990). The use of alternative imaging techniques should therefore be considered first. If X-rays are employed, then the equipment used must deliver the minimum radiation dose consistent with obtaining the information required. The dose to the patient depends not only on the choice of equipment, but also on the method of obtaining the image and on the operator's technique. (Author)