Research summary, original research, 2012

Establishment Of Scatter Factors For Use In Shielding Calculations And Risk Assessment For Computed Tomography Facilities

Wallace H, Martin CJ, Sutton DG, Peet D, Williams JR. Journal of radiological protection : official journal of the Society for Radiological Protection. 2012

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In plain language

Measured scatter around computed tomography (CT) scanners can be estimated from the dose-length product (0.36 for body, 0.14 for head scans, µGy per mGy cm at 1 m), helping plan shielding and assess dose to staff present during CT fluoroscopy.

At a glance

Type of study
Original research, Dosimetry measurement study
Who was studied
Phantom or simulation (no people)
Where
United Kingdom
Summary based on
the abstract

What it found

  • Recommended scatter factors to estimate scatter air kerma at 1 m from the CT isocentre differ for body and head scans.

    Key figures: 0.36 µGy (mGy cm)(-1) body; 0.14 µGy (mGy cm)(-1) head

  • CT gantries transmit only a small fraction of scatter, which can be accounted for in shielding design.

    Key figures: 10%

  • The factors can support risk assessments for staff who must be present during CT fluoroscopy procedures.

Limits to keep in mind

Abstract only; number of scanners and measurement conditions not stated, and results are physical measurements of scatter rather than staff doses or health outcomes.

How this summary was made

ORSIF prepared this summary with AI assistance from the abstract of the paper. A program then checked that the passage supporting each finding appears word for word in that source. A person has not yet reviewed each summary, so read the original before relying on a number. ORSIF summarizes research and does not endorse any product or company. Report a problem with this summary.

Prepared November 3, 2026.