Fluoroscopy without the grid: a method of reducing the radiation dose

Abstract

The anti-scatter grid was removed from the fluoroscopic set during over 80 contrast examinations performed in a pediatric radiology department. The radiation dose to the patient during fluoroscopy and radiography was about half. The loss of contrast during the lack of grid is diagnostically acceptable during many examinations performed on children (of all ages), when balanced against the lower radiation dose received. The contrast improvement factor of the grids in 2 fluoroscopic sets in common use was assessed, using tissue-equivalent phantoms of various thicknesses. Although the contrast is significantly improved by the use of the grid, the relevance of this improvement in clinical radiology will depend on the information sought. Radiologists apparently should use the grid with discretion when performing fluoroscopic examinations on children. The apparatus for such examinations should have the capability for easy removal and reintroduction of the grid.