Patient exposure in cardiac catheterization and cinefluorography using the Eclair 16 mm camera at speeds up to 200 frames per second.

Abstract

Cinefluorographic techniques using a high speed camera at 50, 100, and 200 frames per second are described. The exposure at the skin surface has been measured using an R.cm2 meter for fluoroscopy and cineradiography during 334 examinations of children and adults. An analysis of the measurements is presented with particular reference to comparison of high-speed cine techniques and more conventional methods. It is concluded that 200 frames per second cinefluorography is a major advance in angiocardiographic technique, but should generally be reserved for investigation of cardiological problems presenting in infancy and early childhood. Lower frame speeds are adequate and should be chosen for assessment of less complex clinical problems in order to limit patient exposure. Measurements during combined catheterization, ventriculography, and selective coronary arteriography reveal comparatively high levels of patient exposure. For these investigations it is recommended that cine studies should be restricted to speeds of 50 frames per second or less.