How to Reduce X-ray Exposure During a Used C-arm Procedure

Where should I stand in relation to the X-ray tube during a used C-arm procedure?

The scattered radiation from the patient comprises the main source of radiation dose to staff. Measurements have shown that scattered radiation from a patient’s body is more intense at the entrance side of the X-ray beam (i.e. on the side where the X-ray tube is located the used C-arm). Therefore, it is better to stand on the side of the Image Intensifier, that is the exit side, and not on the X-ray tube side during a used C-arm procedure. Typically, only around 1% to 5% of the radiation falling on the patient body comes out on the exit side. So if you stand on the side of transmitted beam, you encounter scattered radiation corresponding to only 1% to 5% of the incident beam intensity, whereas you encounter scattered radiation corresponding to 100% of the entrance beam intensity on another side.

For more information on radiation safety, read our post called: Fluoroscopic C-arm Safety and Radiation Exposure Guidelines

If you have any question about used C-arms please call 877-283-3154 today!