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RESULTS OF RELID STUDY 2014-BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA RETROSPECTIVE EVALUATION OF LENS INJURIES AND DOSE
C Papp1, M Romano-Miller2, A Descalzo3
1National Atomic Energy Commission, Av. Libertador 8250, 1429 CABA, Argentina.
Radiation Protection Dosimetry
|November 26, 2016
Summary
Staff in catheterization labs face high radiation exposure, leading to lens damage. A 2014 study found significant posterior subcapsular opacities in cardiologists, technicians, and nurses, emphasizing radiation protection and training needs.
Area of Science:
- Medical Physics
- Cardiology
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Catheterization laboratories generate scatter radiation, posing risks to staff.
- Ionizing radiation exposure can cause posterior subcapsular opacities in the eye lens.
- Previous studies, including the 2010 RELID in Argentina, indicated radiation-related lens injuries in healthcare professionals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of radiation-induced posterior subcapsular lens changes in staff working in catheterization laboratories in Argentina.
- To evaluate the long-term effects by following up on professionals previously assessed in 2010.
- To underscore the importance of radiation protection measures and staff training.
Main Methods:
- The Retrospective Evaluation of Lens Injuries and Dose (RELID) study was conducted in Argentina in 2014.
- 115 participants, including interventional cardiologists, technicians, and nurses, were included.
- Lens changes were evaluated using the Merriam-Focht scale to assess posterior subcapsular opacities.
Main Results:
- Posterior subcapsular lens changes were observed in 91.5% of interventional cardiologists, 77% of technicians, and 100% of nurses.
- The study allowed for the follow-up of 10 professionals evaluated in 2010, providing longitudinal data.
- High prevalence of lens opacities indicates significant occupational radiation exposure.
Conclusions:
- Staff in catheterization laboratories exhibit a high incidence of radiation-induced posterior subcapsular lens opacities.
- Effective radiation protection measures and comprehensive staff training are crucial to mitigate these risks.
- The findings highlight the ongoing need for vigilance and adherence to safety protocols in interventional cardiology settings.
