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In Reply: We agree with Dr Price that reliable information on radiation dose estimates in routine clinical practice is not readily available. The reasons for this include evolving dosimetry concepts and understanding of radiation biology and rapid turnover in medical imaging technologies. A recent catalog of effective dose estimates in radiology and diagnostic nuclear medicine¹ acknowledges these methodological difficulties yet provides a useful overview. However, it is perhaps more important for individual clinicians to learn the concept of performing the right imaging test for the right patient than to know the dose estimates for the latest generation of imaging equipment and protocols. This concept entails judicious consideration of the potential risks and benefits of performing a radiological diagnostic examination in each patient's individual situation rather than reflexively ordering tests to address remote diagnostic possibilities or even medicolegal concerns. A recent report from the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements² . . . [Full Text of this Article]

Jörg Hausleiter, MD
hausleiter@dhm.mhn.de
Deutsches Herzzentrum München
Klinik an der Technischen Universität München
Munich, Germany

Thomas C. Gerber, MD
Division of Cardiovascular Diseases
Mayo Clinic
Jacksonville, Florida

Stephan Achenbach, MD
Medizinische Klinik 2
Universitätsklinikum Erlangen
Erlangen, Germany

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