What is the minimum permissible source-to-skin distance for fluoroscopic procedures?

The minimum permissible source-to-skin distance for fluoroscopic procedures is indeed 12 inches. This standard is established to minimize the amount of radiation exposure delivered to the patient's skin during imaging procedures. By maintaining a minimum distance of 12 inches between the radiation source and the patient, the intensity of radiation that reaches the skin is significantly reduced according to the inverse square law. This law states that as the distance from the radiation source increases, the exposure to radiation decreases exponentially. Maintaining this distance not only protects patients from excessive radiation dose but also helps uphold safety standards in fluoroscopy practices. This threshold is a crucial aspect of radiation safety and is mandated in various regulatory practices related to fluoroscopy to ensure patient safety during diagnostic and interventional procedures.