Understanding the Risks of Multiple CT Scans and Radiation Exposure
Risks of Continuous CT Scans Hello, doctor. Last month, I had a series of 8 sinus X-rays, followed by a CT scan (CT750 Gemstone CT) of the abdomen and a frontal chest X-ray the following week. Since no issues were detected, the doctor plans to schedule another CT scan of the head...
Dr. Xu Zhongyuan reply Radiology
Dear Mr. Johnshue, Regarding the imaging examinations you described, they are performed in accordance with the regulations for medical ionizing radiation, based on the needs of your diagnosis and treatment. Such examinations do not cause immediate harm to the body; however, ioni...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Multiple CT Scans and Radiation Exposure
Do You Need Extra Rest After a CT Scan to Repair Chromosomes?
Is it necessary to rest more after a CT scan? I heard that after a CT scan, chromosomes can be damaged by ionizing radiation and need time to repair, so should I rest for a few days? I have to work late nights, and I'm concerned whether working immediately after the scan cou...
Dr. Xu Zhongyuan reply Radiology
Dear Xiaolin, Q: I heard that chromosomes can be disrupted by ionizing radiation after a CT scan and need to be repaired. A: The probability of chromosomes being disrupted by ionizing radiation is currently not documented in the literature. However, if chromosomal damage occur...[Read More] Do You Need Extra Rest After a CT Scan to Repair Chromosomes?
Radiation Safety Concerns for Nurses Caring for Cancer Patients
Nursing staff encountering radiation (Forwarded from the Director's mailbox) Dear Director, I apologize for disturbing you. Our hospital has admitted a patient who underwent medical treatment in mainland China on January 9th of this year. He is a colon cancer patient with m...
Dr. Xu Zhongyuan reply Radiology
Dear Ms. Tsai, Iodine-125 has a half-life of 60 days and emits gamma rays with a maximum energy of 35 keV (kiloelectronvolts). Since it only emits gamma rays, it is not suitable for brachytherapy (which typically uses alpha or beta-emitting isotopes). Currently, it is more commo...[Read More] Radiation Safety Concerns for Nurses Caring for Cancer Patients
CT Scans for Dental Implants: Safety Concerns for Pregnant Women
CT scans for dental implants in pregnant women? Hello, my wife had a CT scan before her dental implant and later found out she is about one month pregnant. What is the radiation dose from the scan? Did it exceed the limit for pregnant women? Could it affect the baby? What should ...
Dr. Xu Zhongyuan reply Radiology
According to the study by Cohnen M et al. published in the European Radiology (Eur Radiol. 2002 Mar;12(3):634-7. Epub 2001 Jun 1.), the maximum radiation doses from various types of dental panoramic imaging are as follows (referring to the patient, while the dose to the fetus is ...[Read More] CT Scans for Dental Implants: Safety Concerns for Pregnant Women
Understanding Occupational Injuries in Radiology: Glass Fiber Concerns
Occupational injury What are the bright spots on the X-ray? I was once injured by fiberglass. What equipment can accurately locate the injury? The doctor mentioned it was a problem with the equipment. I also have fiberglass embedded in the sole of my foot, which causes a sharp pa...
Dr. Xu Zhongyuan reply Radiology
Hello, since I cannot see the X-ray images you mentioned, I am unable to provide a detailed explanation of the significance of the findings. I recommend that you bring the X-ray images and consult a specialist directly. Given that you have had glass fibers embedded in the sole of...[Read More] Understanding Occupational Injuries in Radiology: Glass Fiber Concerns