What is the impact of using the lowest possible radiation dose during fluoroscopy?

Using the lowest possible radiation dose during fluoroscopy significantly improves patient safety. This practice is essential as it minimizes the patient's exposure to ionizing radiation, which can lead to harmful effects such as tissue damage or an increased risk of cancer over time. Adhering to the principle of "as low as reasonably achievable" (ALARA) ensures that patients receive the necessary imaging without unnecessary risk, promoting a safer approach to diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

Other options may imply effects that are not directly related to the radiation dose. For example, while lower doses might impact image quality, it does not inherently guarantee an increase; rather, it may necessitate adjustments or compensatory measures. The duration of the procedure might also be influenced by various factors unrelated to radiation dose, such as the complexity of the case or the efficiency of the equipment used. Similarly, image contrast is largely dependent on the imaging system and contrast agents rather than solely the dose of radiation used. Therefore, the emphasis on patient safety through reduced radiation exposure is the most pertinent and critical impact of this practice.