Occupational radiation exposure to interventional radiologists: a prospective study

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Occupational Health
• Radiology

Background:

• Interventional radiologists face significant occupational radiation exposure.
• Understanding factors influencing radiation dose is crucial for worker safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate occupational radiation doses received by interventional radiologists.
• To identify operator-controlled factors affecting radiation dose, including caseload and protective measures.

Main Methods:

• Thirty interventional radiologists participated, wearing radiation badges over and under lead aprons for two months.
• Data on caseload, case mix, experience, fluoroscopy features, apron type, and shielding were collected via questionnaire.
• Dose measurements were correlated with these operator-controlled factors.

Main Results:

• Mean projected yearly dose (PYD) over lead was 49.1 mSv, increasing to 66.6 mSv for those with ≥1,000 cases/year.
• Mean PYD under lead was 0.9 mSv, significantly lower with 1.0-mm (0.4 mSv) vs. 0.5-mm (1.3 mSv) lead aprons.
• Caseload and apron thickness emerged as primary dose determinants.

Conclusions:

• Occupational radiation dose in interventional radiology is significantly influenced by caseload and lead apron thickness.
• Over-lead doses necessitate additional shielding for the head and neck.
• Double-thickness aprons reduce under-lead dose by two-thirds, and collar badges alone are insufficient for total-body dose monitoring.