Julia L Gaida 1 2 3, Tim Steinberg 1, Susanne M Stieger-Vanegas 2, Roswitha Merle 3, Christoph J Lischer 3
Background
Computed tomography (CT) offers superior imaging quality for equine distal limbs compared to digital radiography (DR), but concerns remain regarding radiation exposure to veterinary staff during standing CT procedures. This study aimed to compare the occupational radiation exposure associated with standing multidetector CT (MDCT) and DR when imaging the distal thoracic limb and tarsus in standing horses, to evaluate the safety and feasibility of MDCT in clinical practice.
Methods
This was a prospective observational study involving 24 Warmblood horses undergoing either MDCT or DR for distal thoracic limb and tarsal imaging. Radiation exposure was measured at four body locations (thyroid, gonads, hands, feet) of the imaging technicians using electronic dosimeters. Standard clinical imaging protocols were followed for both modalities. The study assessed the effective dose and personal dose equivalents to determine cumulative exposure and compared them against international occupational safety limits.
Results
Radiation exposure to the thyroid, hands, and feet was significantly lower during MDCT than during DR for both limb regions. However, gonadal exposure was higher during MDCT of the thoracic limb. Despite longer scan durations and higher repetition rates for MDCT, cumulative radiation doses remained low and within safe limits. The calculated maximum annual scans allowable before reaching occupational exposure limits were higher for MDCT than DR, indicating lower cumulative risk with MDCT.
Limitations
Repetitions of scans due to patient movement were not included in dosimetry calculations, potentially underestimating actual exposure. Results are specific to the MDCT setup used, which included specialized shielding measures not universally available, limiting generalizability. No contrast agents were used, which may underestimate clinical exposure levels.
Conclusions
Standing MDCT of the distal thoracic limb and tarsus in horses results in lower overall radiation exposure to imaging technicians compared to DR, except for higher gonadal exposure during thoracic limb scans. Proper shielding and distancing protocols make MDCT a viable and safer alternative for advanced equine imaging in clinical settings.
Positioning of the imaging technician during the acquisition of MDCT scans of the distal thoracic extremity (position A) and tarsus (position B). The oval demonstrates the horse's position on the midline of the CT gantry. Black arrows indicate the distance between the CT gantry and position A (100 cm, 10 cm from the midline of the CT gantry) or position B (260 cm, 10 cm from the midline of the CT gantry). The cross indicates the standing position of the imaging technician (position A or B).
How did we do?
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