Should the operator be wearing a lead apron while performing a DXA scan?
The short answer is No. It is not necessary for the operator to be close to the DXA scanner during the examination. Studies have shown that Controlled Area [BSS II] can usually be limited to within 1m from the table for pencil beam and 2m for fan beams. If these distances are impractical mobile screens or structural shielding may be required. [Steel et al., 1998; Sheahan et al., 2005; Larkin et al., 2008].Thus, radiation protection can be achieved by having adequate distance between the operator and the patient or using a fixed / mobile lead-acrylic screens, or a combination of both. Regardless of shielding requirements, staff should adhere to good radiation protection practice by minimising the time spent close to the DXA scanner and patient during exposures. If there is doubt, the advice of a radiation protection expert should be sought.
