1. Mobile Fluoroscopy
Based on:
Syllabus on Fluoroscopy Radiation Protection, 6th Rev.
By: Radiologic Health Branch – Certification Unit
PPT created by: Jed Miles, BSRS, RT(R), CRT-CA

2. Structural Provisions
Structural shielding requirements for fluoroscopic units is for scattered radiation shielding and is generally minimal if any, since the entire x-ray beam is intercepted by the image receptor
However, there are certain regulatory provisions which should be noted
If mobile equipment is to be used in one location, shielding must be provided as for a fixed installation
If mobile equipment is routinely used in operating rooms, appropriate structural shielding must be provided for these rooms
Structural shielding = radiation attenuation material built into the walls of the room

3. Equipment Provisions (C-arm)
There are basic regulatory provisions regarding mobile fluoroscopic equipment
Inherent provisions must be made so that the machine cannot be operated at a source-to-skin distance of less than 30cm (12 inches)
This is accomplished by using the spacer attached to the tube / collimator assembly on the C-arm
Image intensification must be provided
Conventional fluoroscopic screens are not permitted for use (remember lesson 1)
It shall be impossible to energize the useful beam of a mobile fluoroscopic unit unless the entire beam is intercepted by the image receptor

4. Equipment Provisions (C-arm)
The maximum permissible dose rate of 5 rads/min may not be exceeded as measured at 30 cm (12 inches) from the input surface of the fluoroscopic image assembly (know this provision)
Personnel monitoring is required for all persons operating mobile x-ray equipment
Protective aprons of a least 0.25 mm lead equivalent must be worn if one is likely to receive 5 millirads/hr or more (notice this one is rads/hour…)
When observance of motion is not necessary, use of an image storage video disc recorder with “electronic radiography” or “last image hold” is an option that will significantly reduce patient and operator exposure

5. Boost Position or High Level Output Control
When a boost position or high level output control button is provided on a mobile fluoroscope to increase the maximum exposure level
The correct method to employ this option
First: use “normal” fluoro mode to locate and center the area of interest
Second: use boost mode only when it is necessary to achieve the quality of image required

6. The End 