ABSTRACT
Medical diagnostic imaging has evolved over the last two decades, in parallel with technical advances in computer processing power. is has resulted in the availability of outstanding quality-diagnostic digital imaging. Digital imaging is now the prime standard for covering a spectrum of imaging modalities, namely projection radiography, angiography, and uoroscopy. However, with increasing availability of new technologies, dedicated purpose-built commercial equipment, suitable for use in children, is not always readily available. Hence, a basic understanding of benets and relative shortfalls of imaging techniques in children is essential to those that are involved in requesting and interpreting radiodiagnostic procedures. Although medical equipment manufacturers are aware of diagnostic radiation implications pertaining to children, and have made attempts to reduce medical radiation dose, the ultimate responsibility remains with radiology technicians and radiologists, who control and operate diagnostic
equipment, to adapt and adjust the existing (primarily adult designed) techniques and protocols to suit the younger, more radiation vulnerable population. Awareness of the potential risks and benets and the need to justify and optimize radiation exposure in both children and adults is an important shared responsibility and this chapter will try to help educate and address some important concepts.
