Research summary, original research, 2026

Estimating effective dose using non-lead protective aprons and a single dosimeter method

Hout JD, Ryu J. Journal of radiological protection : official journal of the Society for Radiological Protection. 2026

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In plain language

Using existing physician dosimetry data, researchers derived an equation to estimate effective dose from a single dosimeter worn over non-lead aprons. It slightly overestimated dose at most, and a thyroid collar lowered estimated dose by 17%-30%.

At a glance

Type of study
Original research, Modeling or economic study
Who was studied
Other physicians
Size
n = 205 dosimeter readings
Summary based on
the abstract

What it found

  • A new equation using nominal lead-equivalent thickness estimates effective dose from a single outside-apron dosimeter for non-lead aprons, with minimal underestimation and up to 1.3-fold overestimation.

    Key figures: E=H0(0.13+1.02e(-11.33x)); up to 1.3-fold overestimation

  • The method improved on previous single-dosimeter methods.

    Key figures: 15%

  • Adding a non-lead thyroid collar reduced effective dose.

    Key figures: 17%-30%

  • The method requires use of accessory upper body shielding.

  • The dataset came from previously published dosimetry on physicians.

    Key figures: 205 dosimeter readings, 42 physicians, 8243 procedures

Limits to keep in mind

Secondary modeling analysis of one previously published dataset, validated against two-dosimeter algorithms rather than true measured effective dose; applicability depends on accessory upper body shielding being used.

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.