CT fluoroscopy--guided interventional procedures: techniques and radiation dose to radiologists

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Radiation Safety

Background:

• Computed tomographic (CT) fluoroscopy is integral to interventional procedures.
• Assessing radiation dose to healthcare professionals is crucial for safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify radiation dose to radiologists during CT fluoroscopic interventional procedures.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a quick-check method and low-milliampere technique in minimizing radiation exposure.

Main Methods:

• Prospective recording of procedure details for 220 CT fluoroscopy-guided interventions in 189 patients.
• Utilized collar and finger radiation detectors to measure radiologist dose per procedure.
• Compared continuous CT fluoroscopy, quick-check method, and combined techniques.

Main Results:

• The quick-check method was used in 87% of procedures.
• Mean CT fluoroscopic time was 17.9 seconds with a mean milliampere value of 13.2 mA.
• Overall mean radiologist radiation dose was 2.5 mrem (0.025 mSv) per procedure, with negligible finger dose.

Conclusions:

• A low-milliampere technique combined with the quick-check method effectively minimizes CT fluoroscopic time.
• This approach significantly reduces radiation exposure for radiologists performing interventional procedures.