Why Gonadal Shielding in X-rays Actually Increases Radiation Dose

Episode notes

In this episode of Frame by Frame: Rethink Imaging, host Chris St. John is joined by Dr. Summer Kaplan, Associate Professor of Clinical Radiology at the University of Pennsylvania and pediatric radiologist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, to examine a major shift in radiation safety protocols—why gonadal shielding is being reconsidered in modern radiology. Dr. Kaplan discusses the findings of groundbreaking research showing how traditional shielding can actually increase patient radiation exposure due to interactions with automatic exposure controls in advanced imaging systems. Together, they explore how modern equipment, data-driven protocols, and AI have revolutionized imaging safety, and what this means for radiology professionals and patients alike. This episode is a must-listen for anyone working in diagnostic imaging, medical physics, or patient safety, offering a forward-thinking perspective on how to communicate, implement, and trust in evolving best practices in radiation protection.