Radiation exposure in a group of interventional cardiologists in a high volume PCIcenter

Abstract

Aims: To demonstrate differences in radiation doses between radial/femoral approach during cardiac catheterization. To increase awareness about ionizing radiation risks in the cath lab. Methods: We measured radiation exposure in a group of interventional cardiologists between July and August 2017 in a high volume PCI-center during 89 procedures. Four calibrated crystals (TLD 100) 3 × 3 × 0.89 mm were used to measure radiation: one in the middle of each ciliary region (crystalline exposition), thyroid (external to leaded protector) and chest (internal to the leaded apron). They were stored and transported in leaded containers to avoid contamination. They were analyzed daily with stimulated thermo-luminescence. Results: Median fluoroscopy time was 4.24 minutes (IR 5.62) for radial access versus 6.02 minutes (IR 9.15) for femoral access (P=0.137). The median mSv in the entire body was 0.060 mSv when access was radial vs. 0.054 msV when access was femoral (p=0.949). Conclusions: Femoral access was related with less radiation exposure in the past. Nowadays, radial access procedures are faster resulting on similar radiation exposure. Radial route could be more appropriate since it entails fewer complications for patients. This study measures crystalline dosimetry in front rather than laterally as most studies do, which undermines the real dose.