Radiation Safety Information

Which Imaging Studies Use Radiation?

At South Jersey Radiology Associates (SJRA), certain diagnostic imaging studies utilize small doses of radiation to capture high quality images. Here are the studies that utilize some form of radiation:

Regulations

There are no regulatory limits on the cumulative amount of radiation a patient may receive from medical diagnostic X-ray studies. The physician is the individual who determines what is medically necessary diagnostic testing based on clinical decisions. However, it is important to be aware of diagnostic testing that utilizes radiation. You can work with your physician to make informed decisions about radiation exposure. Here are the typical radiation doses used:

ALARA, Image Gently, & Image Wisely

ALARA is an acronym for “As Low As Reasonably Achievable” as it pertains to radiation exposure. ALARA encompasses the use of safety techniques such as limiting the scan area to the region of interest, adjusting the technique according to body size and using lead to shield patients. The Image Gently campaign is an initiative of the Alliance for Radiation Safety in Pediatric Imaging focused on increasing awareness and seeking lower radiation doses when imaging children. The Image Wisely campaign is a campaign to increase physician, patient, and imaging technologist collaboration for increasing awareness and lowering radiation dose to all populations.

What Is SJRA Doing?

  • All SJRA radiation-emitting equipment is evaluated by an independent medical physicist.
  • We use Image Gently, Image Wisely, and ALARA principles to minimize dose.
  • We follow the guidelines and protocols for radiation exposure that have been established by the FDA and the American College of Radiology (ACR).
  • All SJRA diagnostic technologists are required to be registered with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT).
  • We use weight and age based imaging for our CT scans.
  • We are making providers, medical professionals, and patients more aware of the risks as well as the benefits of ionizing radiation.