Ocular lens dose in cerebral vascular imaging

Ocular lens dose was considered with respect to cerebral vascular imaging, using both digital subtraction angiography (DSA) and conventional angiography. A dose measurement study is described in which doses were found to be minimal (0.327 cGy) in DSA, but high (60 cGy) using conventional techniques. The use of an undercouch tube in DSA and an increased focus-lens distance, when compared with the conventional angiographic approach were considered the major factors contributing to the difference in lens dose. The implications for selection of technique are discussed.