Application of the Inverse Square Law distance in conventional radiology and mammography

The Inverse Square Law (ISL) is a mathematical rule largely used to adjust the KERMA and exposure to different distances of focal spot having as reference a determined point in space. Taking into account the limitations of this Mathematical Law and its application, we have as main objective to verify the applicability of the ISL to determine exposure on radio-diagnostic area (maximum tensions between 30kVp and 150kVp). Experimental data was collected, deterministic calculation and simulation using Monte Carlo Method (Geant4 toolkit) was applied. The experimental data was collected using a calibrated ionizing chamber TNT 12000 from Fluke. The conventional X-ray equipment used was a Multix Top of Siemens, with Tungsten track and total filtration equivalent to 2,5 mm of Aluminum; and the mammographic equipment was a Mammomat Inspiration from Siemens, presenting the track-add filtration combinations of Molybdenum-Molybdenum (25 μm), Molybdenum-Rhodium (30 μm), Tungsten-Rhodium (50 μm). Both equipment have the Quality Control testes in agreement to Brazilian regulations. On conventional radiology the measurements were performed at following focal spot-detector distance (FsDD): 40cm, 50 cm, 60 cm, 70 cm, 80 cm, 90 cm, 100 cm for peak tensions of 66 kVp, 81 kVp e 125 kVp. On mammography the measurements were performed at FsDD: 60cm, 50cm, 40 cm and 26 cm for peak tensions of 25kVp, 30kVp and 35kVp. Based on the results it is possible conclude that the ISL presents lower performance in correct measurement on Mammography spectra (induce to larger errors on estimate data), but it can cause significant impact on both areas depending on the spectra energy and distance to correct. (author)