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K. Liepe, M. Andreeff, J. Mielcarek, I. Barth, G. Wunderlich, J. Kropp, J. Kotzerke
Beta-radiation exposure at the finger tips during the radionuclide synovectomy
Keywords: radiation synovectomy, radiation protection, -particle dosimetry
AIM: The radiation synovectomy is a widespread therapeutic option in rheumatoid arthritis. However, data for the -radiation exposure are rare. The aim of this study was to determine the personal dose equivalent HP (0.07) of the skin of the hands. METHODS: Thermo-luminescence detectors (TLDs) were attached at all fingertips of the therapist, the radiochemist and the nurse. In summary, the measurement of -exposure occurred in 155 joints at 6 days with different radio-nuclides (169Er, 186Re, 90Y). RESULTS: The greatest beta exposure were show at the forefinger (L-Ff) and thumb (L-Th) of the left hand, with which the therapist (right hander) fixed the injection needle. In 52 treated finger-joints (1204 MBq 169Er), 29 treated large joints (2405 MBq 186Re) and 15 treated knees (3100 MBq 90Y) we found a cumulative beta exposure over all radionuclides of 190 mSv at L-Ff and 48 mSv at L-Th. The specific beta exposure for the individual radio-nuclides showed beta exposures of 0,56 Sv/MBq for 169Er and 1,52 Sv/MBq for 186Re-186 at the L-Ff. With using a manipulator the -exposure (90Y) could reduced from 22,09 to 0,42 Sv/MBq at the L-Ff. The greatest beta exposures for the radiochemist was 119 mSv at the L-Ff for all radionuclides. CONCLUSION: In usual techniques of radiation synovectomy the 90Y produced the greatest part of radiation exposure. Especially at the L-Ff it might exceed the German limit for the official dosimetry service at the skin (55 Strl-SchV). Using a holding forceps we can keep the legal rules and can reduce considerably the beta exposure.
Nuklearmedizin, Schattauer
Print ISSN: 0029-5566
Volume: 42, 01/2003
Pages: 104 - 108