EACVI survey on radiation exposure in interventional echocardiography

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging
• Radiology

Background:

• Interventional echocardiography is increasingly used for structural heart procedures.
• Echocardiography operators face potential radiation exposure during these procedures.
• Current radioprotection practices and awareness among these operators are not well-defined globally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess global practices and awareness regarding radioprotection in interventional echocardiography.
• To identify gaps in training and the use of protective measures.
• To evaluate perceived radiation risks compared to interventional cardiologists.

Main Methods:

• A global survey conducted by the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI) Scientific Initiatives Committee.
• Data collected from 258 interventional echocardiographers across 52 countries.
• Survey focused on radioprotection practices, training, radiation dose awareness, and protective device usage.

Main Results:

• Only 28% of participants received periodic radioprotection training; 72% were unaware of their annual radiation dose.
• High usage of personal protective devices (lead aprons, thyroid collars) but lack of dedicated architectural shielding for 33%.
• A majority perceived higher radiation exposure than interventional cardiologists and called for improved radioprotection.

Conclusions:

• Radioprotection measures are inconsistent across centers, with underuse of devices increasing radiation risk.
• There is a significant need for standardized radioprotection training and reliable radiation dose assessment.
• International collaboration is crucial to endorse training and promote dedicated shielding for interventional echocardiographers.