Introduction: X-ray imaging is a part of diagnostic radiology. Protective measures are required to achieve diagnostically optimal image with the lowest possible dose. Diagnostic reference levels are one of the tools that help to optimize patient radiation dose. Imaging of the chest, lumbar spine and pelvis are among the most common examinations in general radiography. Purpose: A Community health centre Idrija had an installation of a new X-ray unit in April 2022. Therefore, with this study we wanted to know the dose levels for imaging of the chest, lumbar spine and pelvis and compare them with Slovenian and European values. The purpose of the study is also to compare the correlation between the mAs product and dose area product and correlation between the mAs product and effective dose. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study using an experimental method. Between January to April 2023, we collected data for 100 chest radiographs, 50 lumbar spine radiographs and 50 pelvis radiographs. We performed Monte Carlo simulation and calculated the effective dose. Then we analysed the obtained data and compared them with Slovenian and European levels. Results: Typical dose value for the chest imaging in the posteroanterior projection was 47.38 mGycm2, for the chest imaging in the lateral projection 137.15 mGycm2, for the lumbar spine imaging in the anteroposterior projection 490.65 mGycm2, for the lumbar spine imaging in the lateral projection 1216.65 mGycm2 and for the pelvis imaging in the anteroposterior projection 550.80 mGycm2. The correlation coefficient has shown strong correlation between the mAs product and dose area product for the chest imaging in posteroanterior projection (r=0.795), and very strong correlation for chest imaging in lateral projection (r=0.955), for lumbar spine in anteroposterior projection (r=0.977), and lateral projection (r=0.953) as well as for the pelvic imaging (r=0.993). Discussion and conclusion: The values of DAP and effective dose in our institution was lower than the average in Slovenia and Europe in all inspected areas. The main reason for this is most likely the newer technology of X-ray equipment. The correlation between the mAs product and the dose area product as well as the correlation between the mAs product and the effective dose are also strong to almost perfect.
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