Radiation dose to the eyes and parotids during CT of the sinuses.
OBJECTIVE
To measure the radiation dose to the lens and parotid during high-resolution computed tomography scan of the sinuses.


METHODS
Nine cadaver heads were scanned in the axial plane by means of a fine-cut (0.75 mm) protocol. Images were then reconstructed in the coronal and sagittal planes for use with the image guidance software. Thermoluminescent dosimeters were taped over the eyes and parotids and used to measure the radiation dose absorbed by these organs.


RESULTS
Doses obtained were 29.5 mGy for the lens and around 30 mGy for the parotid.


CONCLUSIONS
The measured doses are lower than the reported acute thresholds of 500-2000 mGy for lens opacities and well below the threshold of 2500 mGy for damage to the parotid.


CONCLUSIONS
These results demonstrate minimal risk from radiation through the use of high-resolution computed tomography and support the use of such a protocol for diagnosis and preoperative planning.
Bassim
Marc K
MK
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA. mbassim@mac.com
Ebert
Charles S
CS
Sit
Roger C
RC
Senior
Brent A
BA
D002102:Cadaver; D006801:Humans; D007908:Lens, Crystalline; D010256:Paranasal Sinuses / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D010306:Parotid Gland; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D013819:Thermoluminescent Dosimetry; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed