Energy imparted in roentgen diagnostic procedures. Results of two surveys during the periods 1958-1960 and 1974-1976 related to technical modifications.

A comparison of the energy imparted during diagnostic radiographic procedures at the University Hospital in Lund during 1958 to 1960 and during 1974 revealed an unexpected, low decrease during the intermediate period. The influence of various technical factors on the irradiation of the patient was estimated and attempts made to explain the discrepancy between expected and measured energy imparted during 1974 to 1976. Considering the growth in frequency of examinations from 1960 to 1975 an increase in the population irradiation from diagnostic radiology is deduced for that period. The consequences of an optimum use of the technical modifications could have led to a decrease.