Scatter dose mapping in bedside x-ray machines

Mobile Radiography units are used for radiographic imaging of sick immobile patients in areas such as intensive care, critical care and in post-operative units. It is also used in operating and emergency rooms that lack standard, fixed radiographic equipment. X-rays are produced by the X-ray tube when a stream of electrons, accelerated to high velocities by a high-voltage, interact with the tube's target anode. A set of collimators confines the primary X-ray beam to the approximate size and shape that will cover only the area of diagnostic interest. Mobile CR units capture images using a photostimulable-phosphor plate. Mobile DR units are equipped with built-in or tethered flat panel detectors, which use a scintillator material to convert X-rays to visible light. The patient is prepped and provided some form of radiation shielding The unit is positioned around the patient, who is asked to remain motionless while the image is being taken The operator takes the image by activating the X-ray beam using an exposure switch The operator repositions the patient or unit if needed for multiple images. IMCU, ICU, emergency, trauma ward and critical care units are typically ill equipped to shield patients and medical staff from radiation exposure. Personnel and nearby patients can be protected by protective lead aprons and movable radiation shielding. Mobile units may give slightly higher scatter radiation. Aim of this work was to measured the amount of scatter radiation in and around the mobile X-Ray machine