Could someone please tell me how many x-rays a 4 y.o should safely be able to have in about a month? I have a friend who's DD swallowed a coin and has had 2 x-rays so far to check the progress. Both these x-rays showed little movement and there is some concern on the progress and are therefore querying another x-ray and the safety of this. Obviously it needs to be weighed up with the issues of a foreign body inside but any information is greatly appreciated. They will be going to the GP tomorrow and would prefer to go with some information if anyone here has advice/experience etc.
3 plain film x-rays is not a huge deal. A child having a CT, angiogram or nuclear med scan would get a greater radiation dose in a single scan. Or a child who has been in an accident or being investigated for non accidental injury could have a lot more than that at one time, they often have to have a whole skeletal survey.
Obviously as few as possible is ideal but the few they are having wouldn't generally be of a concern. A coin stuck however could cause serious issues and may require surgery.
If she is concerned, get them to place lead over the areas that are not being x-rayed... throat and overies.
When MJ had an Xray on her lungs i insisted that she had lead everywhere else and there was no fuss, they were fine with it.
In fact if i have an xray, i ask for lead... i had a wrist one (XR) and wore an apron, i got a funny look, but i told them that at the time i was TTC so they had no problem
Just a quick update. My friend really liked your suggestion SJ. She asked for it to be done however was told it would obscure the picture too much but they did use a lower level of radiation instead. Unfortunately the coin hasn't moved so she is seeking further investigation.
X-Rays for 4yo
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