Radiation Protection in Nuclear Medicine

This book explains clearly and in detail all aspects of radiation protection in nuclear medicine, including measurement quantities and units, detectors and dosimeters, and radiation biology. Discussion of radiation doses to patients and to embryos, fetuses, and children forms a central part of the book. Phantom models, biokinetic models, calculations, and software solutions are all considered, and a further chapter is devoted to quality assurance and reference levels. Occupational exposure also receives detailed attention. Exposure resulting from the production, labeling, and injection of radiopharmaceuticals and from contact with patients is discussed and shielding calculations are explained. The book closes by considering exposure of the public and summarizing the "rules of thumb" for radiation protection in nuclear medicine. This is an ideal textbook for students and a ready source of useful information for nuclear medicine specialists and medical physics experts.

Introduction: the importance of radiation protection in nuclear medicine. - Dose quantities and units for radiation protection. - Radiobiology for radiation protection. - Radiobiology and radiation dosimetry for the lens of the eye. - Radiation exposure of the embryo/foetus and the new-born child. - Quality control of gamma cameras, SPECT/CT and PET/CT units. - Occupational exposure with special reference to skin doses in hands and fingers. - Radiation doses from patients to staff members, comforters and caregivers and to the general population. - Examples of shielding calculations for a PET/CET installation. - Radionuclide releases to the environment from hospitals and patients. - Rules of the thumb and practical hints for radiation protection in nuclear medicine.