Why is fluoroscopy particularly hazardous?

Fluoroscopy is particularly hazardous primarily because the source-to-image distance is shorter. In fluoroscopic procedures, X-ray tubes are typically positioned very close to the patient, which means that the radiation exposure to both the patient and the operator can be significantly higher compared to other radiographic techniques where the X-ray source is farther away. This close proximity increases the dose of radiation received in a shorter amount of time.

Additionally, fluoroscopy often involves continuous or repeated exposure to radiation as images are captured in real-time, further compounding the risk. The shorter source-to-image distance means that the radiation is more concentrated in a smaller area, increasing the potential for harm from cumulative exposure. The awareness of this factor is critical for healthcare professionals, as it emphasizes the importance of implementing proper safety protocols and radiation protection measures to minimize exposure.