Decreasing operators' radiation exposure during coronary procedures

Abstract

One hundred and six patients were randomly assigned by time period to undergo radial coronary procedures either with or without a TRPB. This is a grooved arm board with a detachable 0.5-mm lead equivalent shield designed to rest between the patient's arm and side. Individual case-specific radiation exposures were measured using electronic personal dosimeter worn on the left outer pocket of the lead apron at chest level. The TRPB was used in addition to standard lead apron and thyroid shielding, below-table leaded flaps, and leaded glass. Operator radiation exposure was significantly decreased in the TRPB group overall: 28 [18-65] microSV versus 19.5 [10.5-35] microSV, P = 0.003. There were no significant differences in procedure duration, total fluoroscopy dose, or contrast load between the two groups. conclusion: Identification of methods to reduce operator radiation dose is important. The use of the TRPB can significantly reduce radiation exposure to radial operators.