Development of a headgear-based eye protection device for physicians performing fluoroscopy-guided bronchoscopy

Fluoroscopy-guided bronchoscopy is an essential tool for diagnosing and treating lung diseases, particularly lung cancer. However, prolonged fluoroscopic exposure raises concerns regarding radiation-induced lens injuries in physicians, such as radiation cataracts. In response to the International Commission on Radiological Protection lowering the occupational lens dose limit to an average of 20 mSv/year over 5 years, there is an increasing need for effective lens protection during such procedures. This study has aimed to develop a novel lens protection device specifically designed for bronchoscopy physicians and evaluate its protective performance through a phantom study. The device consisted of a 0.175 mm lead (Pb) sheet positioned on the left side of the physician's head, secured with headgear to improve stability and comfort during prolonged use. A phantom study was conducted using a trunk phantom to simulate a patient and a head phantom to simulate a physician. The scattered radiation doses were measured at 15 locations on the phantom head using a radiophotoluminescence glass dosimeter, both with and without a protective device. The device demonstrated a protective effect of more than 80% for the left eye across all tested angles, whereas the right eye showed protection ranging from approximately 40% to 75% depending on the angle. This novel lens protection device has the potential to significantly reduce scattered radiation to the left eye while minimizing vision obstruction and discomfort. This offers a practical solution for radiation protection during bronchoscopy and may be applicable to other interventional procedures requiring fluoroscopic guidance.