Radiation exposure to angiographer during coronary arteriography using the U arm image amplifier

Radiation exposure to the angiographer was measured using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD), commercial film badges, and appropriate ionization survey meters. Data were collected during 47 coronary artery examinations with the lead overleaf. During a single coronary examination, the angiographer receives 0.9 mR to the lens and 2.8 mR to the hand. The calculated yearly exposure to the angiographer performing 10 examinations per week is 450 mR to the lens, 9% of the maximum permissible dose (MPD), and 1400 mR to the hand, 2% of the MPD. Exposure rates for the left anterior oblique (LAD) and right anterior oblique (RAO) projections during cine and fluoroscopy were taken at the position occupied by the angiographer. Scatter radiation is 5-10 times greater in the LAO projection. The second trial was monitored during 18 coronary artery examinations minus the lead overleaf. A significant decrease in radiation exposure was accomplished through the use of the lead overleaf.