[Use of patient radiation shielding in diagnostic and interventional radiology]

The use of patient contact shielding provides an opportunity to reduce patient radiation exposure. Recently, the use has been the subject of controversy. The Radiation Protection Committee has published a recommendation on the use of patient radiation shields by considering the recent findings on dose savings but also the risks of incorrect use. In this article, a specification for the more frequently used types of X‑ray examination is given, which describes whether and which radiation contact shielding should be used. This is accompanied by a rationale for the use or non-use of patient radiation protection agents. Problems and possible errors are explained, as well as how to deal with special situations such as pregnant women and children.