Minimizing Occupational and Patient Radiation Exposure Using an Optimized Injection Technique

Abstract

In an attempt to lower whole-body and hand radiation exposure to the technologist and decrease the number of infiltrated doses, our laboratory instituted a “cold start” method for radionuclide injections. We then compared the radiation dosimetry readings for a period before and after instituting the method. The finger ring exposures and whole-body exposures were compared. The exposure to the technologist’s hands was reduced by 56% and to the technologist’s body by 28%. Detectable extravasation of the dose was reduced from 64% to 9%. We recommend the use of this technique for all nuclear medicine departments.