Radiation Protection for the Fluoroscopy Operator and Staff : American Journal of Roentgenology : Vol. 207, No. 4 (AJR)

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Radiation Protection for the Fluoroscopy Operator and Staff

October 2016, Volume 207, Number 4

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FOCUS ON: Vascular and Interventional Radiology

Review

Radiation Protection for the Fluoroscopy Operator and Staff

Quinn C. Meisinger^1,², Cosette M. Stahl^1,², Michael P. Andre^1,², Thomas B. Kinney^1,² and Isabel G. Newton^1,²

+ Affiliations:

¹Radiology Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, 3350 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92161.

²Department of Radiology, UC San Diego Medical Center, San Diego, CA.

Citation: American Journal of Roentgenology. 2016;207: 745-754. 10.2214/AJR.16.16556

ABSTRACT :

OBJECTIVE. The purposes of this article are to review available data regarding the range of protection devices and garments with a focus on eye protection and to summarize techniques for reducing scatter radiation exposure.

CONCLUSION. Fluoroscopy operators and staff can greatly reduce their radiation exposure by wearing properly fitted protective garments, positioning protective devices to block scatter radiation, and adhering to good radiation practices. By understanding the essentials of radiation physics, protective equipment, and the features of each imaging system, operators and staff can capitalize on opportunities for radiation protection while minimizing ergonomic strain. Practicing and promoting a culture of radiation safety can help fluoroscopy operators and staff enjoy long, productive careers helping patients.

Keywords: cataracts, dose estimation, fluoroscopy, interventional radiology, quality improvement, radiation biology, radiation dose, radiation protection, radiation risk

M. P. Andre received ultrasound research grants from Siemens Medical Solutions and GE Healthcare. I. G. Newton is a member of the medical advisory board of Sanarus Technologies.

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Address correspondence to I. G. Newton ([email protected]).