PATIENT RADIATION EXPOSURE DURING CORONARY ANGIOGRAPHY AND INTERVENTION

Abstract

The values from coronary angiography were comparable to other reports with a mean fluoroscopic time of 4.4 min and a mean KAP value of 62.6 Gycm(2). The corresponding figures from coronary balloon angioplasty without stenting were lower than otherwise reported, with 8.2 min and 47.9 Gycm(2), respectively. The use of coronary stents did prolong the mean fluoroscopic time (10.5 min) but did not significantly enhance the patient mean radiation dose (51.4 Gycm(2)). The dose reduction technique resulted in a significant KAP value reduction of 57%. In conclusion, with regard to radiation exposure, coronary angiography and balloon angioplasty are considered safe procedures.