During a fluoroscopic exam, which is the main source of scattered radiation?

During a fluoroscopic exam, the patient is the main source of scattered radiation. When x-rays penetrate the patient's body, a portion of the radiation is absorbed while some are scattered in different directions as the x-rays interact with various tissues. This scattering occurs due to the nature of x-ray interactions within the body, such as Compton scattering, where x-ray photons collide with electrons in the patient's tissues, causing the photons to change direction.

The amount and direction of scattered radiation depend on several factors, including the patient’s size, the energy of the x-rays, and the anatomy being examined. This scattered radiation can contribute to exposure for anyone in the vicinity, including healthcare providers and other patients. Understanding the patient as the primary source of scatter is crucial for implementing safety measures, such as using lead shields and maintaining appropriate distances during fluoroscopic procedures to minimize exposure.