Radiation Exposure in Endovascular Surgery According to Complexity: Protocol for a Prospective Observational Study

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Medical Imaging
• Radiation Oncology

Background:

• Endovascular surgery has advanced significantly, enabling complex procedures via minimally invasive techniques.
• Modern C-arms enhance imaging for endovascular navigation, but radiation exposure remains a concern.
• Comparing radiation doses between different imaging systems is crucial for patient and staff safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze and compare radiation doses during endovascular procedures based on complexity.
• To evaluate radiation exposure from mobile X-ray systems versus hybrid rooms (fixed X-ray systems).
• To provide data for optimizing radiation management in endovascular interventions.

Main Methods:

• An observational, prospective study involving non-randomized patients undergoing endovascular procedures.
• Data collected over a 3-year period, with a 30-month recruitment and 1-month follow-up per patient.
• Radiologic variables obtained directly from C-arm systems, comparing mobile X-ray units and hybrid rooms.

Main Results:

• Radiation dose analysis correlated with the complexity of endovascular procedures.
• Comparative data on radiation exposure between mobile X-ray systems and hybrid rooms.
• Identification of radiation levels associated with specific endovascular interventions.

Conclusions:

• The study provides the first prospective data on radiation dose relative to endovascular procedure complexity.
• Findings will guide the determination of appropriate radiation levels for various endovascular procedures.
• Direct C-arm data acquisition ensures feasibility and accuracy in radiation assessment.