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Radiation exposure to the child during cardiac catheterization
Circulation
|July 1, 1981
Summary
Pediatric cardiac catheterization involves radiation exposure, particularly to the chest and thyroid. Strategies like low-dose fluoroscopy and shielding can minimize risks to children undergoing these procedures.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Radiology
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Limited data exists on radiation exposure in pediatric cardiac catheterization.
- Assessing radiation dose is crucial for patient safety in pediatric procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify radiation exposure to various organs in children during cardiac catheterization.
- To identify areas of high radiation dose and suggest methods for dose reduction.
Main Methods:
- Utilized lithium fluoride thermoluminescent dosimeters to measure radiation exposure.
- Measured doses in 30 pediatric patients (3 days to 21 years) across different procedural phases.
- Placed dosimeters on eyes, thyroid, chest, abdomen, and gonads.
Main Results:
- Average chest doses: 24.5 mR (roentgenography), 5810 mR (fluoroscopy), 1592 mR (cineangiography).
- Average doses during catheterization: 26 mR (eyes), 431 mR (thyroid), 150 mR (abdomen), 11 mR (gonads).
- Radiation exposure is low to eyes and gonads, but high to the chest and thyroid.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric cardiac catheterization poses significant radiation exposure to the chest and thyroid.
- Recommended strategies include low pulse-rate fluoroscopy, contrast echocardiography, and targeted shielding.
- Prioritizing accurate diagnosis while minimizing radiation is essential.