December 29, 2014 — Image Wisely.org now offers online educational materials for fluoroscopy, computed tomography (CT) and nuclear medicine exams. Fluoroscopy is the latest addition to Image Wisely, which helps radiology providers optimize radiation dose and provide safe, effective imaging care.
“Fluoroscopy can deliver one of the higher radiation doses in medical imaging. This new initiative will help radiology providers deliver quality patient care and optimize radiation dose and image quality during fluoroscopic procedures,” said Richard Morin, Ph.D., co-chair and American College of Radiology (ACR) representative to Image Wisely.
The materials cover a broad array of topics including: principles of radiation safety for patients and the teams performing fluoroscopy procedures; dose monitoring; teamwork; organizational culture; checklists and other tools from the process improvement perspective. Also included are protocols and techniques on principles for diagnostic fluoroscopic procedures, interventional procedures and cardiac procedures.
“Careful planning and execution of fluoroscopically-guided interventional procedures can reduce procedure risk as well as radiation exposure to the patient and hospital staff,” said William Mayo-Smith, M.D., co-chair and Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) representative to Image Wisely.
While fluoroscopy is the third largest source of medical radiation exposure behind CT and nuclear medicine, it provides tremendous diagnostic and treatment value. Fluoroscopy is used in many types of examinations and procedures, including barium enemas, cardiac catheterization, arthrography, angiography and biopsies.
“Our goal is to ensure that every facility uses appropriate dose reduction techniques when performing fluoroscopic procedures,” said Donald Peck, Ph.D., American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) representative to Image Wisely. “The new Image Wisely webpage is a one-stop location to find advice and links to credible resources to help facilities reduce the incidence of adverse reactions to the patient due to excess radiation and improper technique.”
“Radiation safety during fluoroscopic procedures depends on an extensive network of people working together as a team,” said Greg Morrison, MA, RT (R), American Society of Radiologic Technologist (ASRT) representative to Image Wisely. “High-performing teams greatly exceed the capabilities of individuals, no matter their skill, intelligence or dedication.”
For more information: www.acr.org
June 19, 2024 
