Patient and endoscopist radiation doses during ERCP procedures

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiation Oncology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Interventional Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) involves radiation exposure for both patients and medical staff.
• Accurate dose calculation is crucial for patient safety and occupational health in interventional radiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To calculate radiation doses for patients and staff during interventional ERCP procedures.
• To identify factors influencing radiation dose in ERCP.
• To assess the effectiveness of protective measures for staff.

Main Methods:

• Data from 157 interventional ERCP procedures were collected, including patient age, kerma-area product (KAP), fluoroscopy time, and number of images.
• Radiation dose for one experienced endoscopist was monitored using a thermoluminescent dosemeter.
• Analysis focused on correlations between patient demographics, procedure parameters, and radiation dose.

Main Results:

• Median KAP was 3.1 Gy cm(-2), with significant variation (0.1-106.7 Gy cm(-2)).
• No correlation was found between KAP and patient age, fluoroscopy time, or number of images.
• Staff radiation dose was negligible due to the consistent use of lead aprons, collars, and ceiling-mounted shields.

Conclusions:

• Appropriate protective measures effectively minimize radiation exposure for medical staff during ERCP.
• Patient radiation doses during ERCP exhibit considerable variability, necessitating further research into dose reduction strategies.
• The study highlights the importance of ongoing radiation safety assessments in interventional procedures.