Comparative Effectiveness of 2 Next-Generation Scatter Radiation Shielding Systems

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiological Sciences
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Scatter radiation poses a significant health risk to personnel in fluoroscopically guided interventional suites.
• Evaluating advanced radiation shielding systems is crucial for enhancing staff safety during medical imaging procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of two next-generation radiation shielding systems in reducing scatter radiation exposure.
• To assess the performance of the Rampart IC and EggNest Complete shielding systems in a simulated catheterization laboratory environment.

Main Methods:

• Radiation survey meters were placed at six positions around an anthropomorphic phantom on an imaging table.
• Scatter radiation levels (μSv/h) were measured under three conditions: no shielding, Rampart IC shielding, and EggNest Complete shielding.
• Fluoroscopy was performed using a Philips Allura C-arm with ClarityIQ software across various angulations.

Main Results:

• Scatter radiation distribution was uneven, with higher doses at the head of the table and on the left side.
• Both EggNest Complete and Rampart IC systems significantly reduced scatter radiation for operator and assistant positions.
• EggNest Complete demonstrated substantially greater scatter radiation reduction at the head of the bed and nursing positions compared to Rampart IC (P < .01).

Conclusions:

• Both tested shielding systems effectively lower radiation exposure for primary procedural staff.
• The EggNest Complete system provides superior scatter radiation protection for personnel at the head of the bed and nursing positions.
• Next-generation shielding systems offer enhanced safety measures for healthcare professionals working with X-ray equipment.