What is contact shielding in radiation practice?

Contact shielding refers specifically to the practice of placing a shield directly on the patient during a radiological procedure to protect certain areas of the body from exposure to radiation. This method is particularly effective in reducing the dose to radiosensitive organs while allowing the necessary imaging to occur. For example, when performing X-rays, lead shields can be positioned over the reproductive organs or other sensitive areas to minimize radiation exposure, thus enhancing the overall safety of the procedure.

In contrast to this approach, distance barriers or shields that are not in direct contact with the patient may not provide the same level of localized protection. While wearing shields may protect the technician, it does not directly address the patient’s exposure. Likewise, general shielding implemented within the examination room serves a broader protective function but is not as targeted as contact shielding.