Aim: The radiation exposure in radiation synovectomy was investigated for technician and therapist using Erbium-169, Rhenium-186 and Yttrium-90 with and without syringe shieldings.
Methods: Dose rates were measured in relation to the distance of the syringe containing the radionuclide. Measurements were repeated using syringe shieldings which consist of plastic surrounded by a lead layer.
Results: The most relevant radiation exposure arises from Yttrium-90. Using syringe shieldings radiation exposure can be reduced by a factor of thousand.
Conclusion: This kind of radiological protection is completely sufficient for the therapist. Concerning the technician preparing the radiopharmaceutics, the limit of the official German dosimetry service (500 mSv) might be exceeded if no special radiological protection is established. Thus, special dosimetry is recommended.