Expert recommends quick CT/ MRI scans for pregnant women

LUCKNOW : A new protocol was needed to conduct quick CT/ MRI scans of patients who were not to be exposed to radiation much, said experts on the second day of the fifth National Conference of the Indian Society of Radiographers and Technologists, here on Sunday.

“CT/ MRI of patients such as pregnant women should be done using a quick scan method. Prolonged exposure can be harmful for expecting mothers,” said Dr Dhananjay Kumar Singh, assistant professor and in-charge, radiation safety, Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences.

He said that medical staff and technologists needed to plan quick scans for restless patients too, so that they were not made to stay for long.

“A quick scan, if planned for such patients in advance, will also be good for the medical staff,” he added.

Dr Singh said that based on the discussions organised dur- ing the different sessions at the conference, some key points had been gleaned, which would be submitted to the authorities concerned so that radiology services could be improved.

“We have identified some points regarding the safety of patients and the medical staff. These will be submitted to the governor office,” said Dr Singh, adding that the recommendations would include better working conditions for the staff.