Lead Apron Research Articles

Comparative analysis of fetal dose sparing between a C-arm linac and an O-ring linac in a SIB-VMAT sarcoma treatment for a pregnant patient: A technical note and case report.

To compare the effect of two linacs designs on fetal dose sparing on a pregnant patient, including estimation of the fetal dose, and the effect of a lead apron. A patient with a high-grade sarcoma located in the right knee/lower thigh was prescribed 51Gy (1.7Gy/Fx) with a simultaneous-integrated-boost (SIB) of 60Gy to a smaller volume, starting in the 26thgestational week. Volumetric modulated radiation therapy (VMAT) plans with 6MV-FFF were developed using identical dosimetric constraints on a Varian Truebeam Edge with HD-MLC and a Varian Halcyon with double-stacked MLC. Based on patient dimension measurements, an anthropomorphic phantom was constructed using a Rando phantom and saline bags in the patient's Vac-Lok bag. Phantom measurements were performed using OSLDs and TLDs placed at three different planes, corresponding to the pubis, the umbilicus, and the fundus based on patient measurements and projected gestational age, to estimate the fetal dose. Three experimental scenarios were measured, each with CBCT-based image guidance for an accurate, reproducible setup: Edge, Halcyon, and Halcyon with a tri-folded lead apron (0.5mm×3=1.5mmPb) over the phantom abdomen. Plan quality and total MUs are comparable between the Edge and Halcyon plans. The OSLD-measured whole-course dose to the pubis, umbilicus, and fundus were 18.8, 13.1, and 11.7 cGy, respectively, on Halcyon, on average 27.8% lower than Edge. The repeatability within either dosimeter was good, although TLD showed systematically lower doses. Importantly, both dosimetry systems showed a lower measured fetal dose for the Halcyon plan compared with the Edge plan. Adding a tri-folded lead apron over the abdomen did not meaningfully lower the measured dose. In this case study, Halcyon demonstrated a better sparing of out-of-field fetal dose compared to TrueBeam Edge. It was shown that lead aprons do not provide additional fetal dose sparing.

Radiating for Two: Quantifying Radiation Exposure to Pregnant Urologists During Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy.

Current occupational recommendations limit fetal radiation dose to 1 mSv. With increased gender diversity in urology, understanding radiation exposure during pregnancy is crucial. The purpose of this study was to determine surgeon uterine radiation dose during percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) and compare effectiveness of several radiation reduction strategies in a cadaver model. Two cadavers were used to simulate the surgeon and patient in a PCNL model. An ion chamber was placed behind the surgeon's anterior uterine wall to measure radiation dose. Three radiation reduction methods were compared: pulsed fluoroscopy (1, 4, 8, 15, 30 pps), low-dose (LD) fluoroscopy, and surgeon shielding (none, 0.35, 0.50, 0.70 mm lead equivalents). The average radiation dose/second was recorded for 20 trials per combination. Assuming 5 minutes of fluoroscopy per PCNL, the number of cases required to exceed the fetal occupational limit was determined. Decreasing pulse frequency from 30 to 1 pps reduced dose by 96% (p<0.001). The LD setting decreased dose by 56% (p<0.001). A 0.35 mm lead apron resulted in a 94% dose reduction (p<0.001), and the 0.50 and 0.70 mm lead aprons further reduced dose by 12% and 47%, respectively. At conventional fluoroscopy settings of automatic exposure control and 30 pps, a surgeon could perform 12 PCNLs using no lead or 189 PCNLs using a 0.35 mm lead apron before reaching the 1 mSv limit. In addition to shielding, employing 1 pps with LD further decreased radiation exposure, allowing over 6000 cases to be performed with <1 mSv uterine radiation exposure. Within the limitations of this cadaver study, these data support that high volume pregnant surgeons employing active radiation reduction techniques such as pulsed, LD fluoroscopy and appropriate shielding can maintain surgical volume with relatively low risk. Fetal dosimeter use with monthly monitoring is still encouraged to confirm safety throughout pregnancy.

Structure design and ergonomic assessment of a passive exoskeleton supporting the lead apron for interventional surgery

Structure design and ergonomic assessment of a passive exoskeleton supporting the lead apron for interventional surgery

Knowledge and practices of interventional radiology staff regarding radiation protection

Interventional radiology (IR) has become a widespread medical imaging technique, offering minimally invasive treatment options. However, IR procedures can expose patients and staff to substantial radiation risks, necessitating enhanced radiation protection practices. This study aimed to survey the knowledge and practices of interventional radiology staff regarding radiation protection. A cross-sectional study with a descriptive aim, based on a questionnaire was done. The study subjects were all healthcare personnel of all specialties having practiced in interventional radiology between 2019 and 2022 at the University Hospital Center of Rabat. The statistical processing was carried out using Microsoft Excel 2013® and the IBM SPSS Statistical program version 20 (IBM Inc. NY, USA). The results indicated that 59.4% of participants had not received any specific training in radiation protection, and 45% were unaware of the radiation-induced risks associated with interventional radiology procedures. Regarding safety practices, 75% of participants maintained a distance of at least 1 meter from the x-ray source, while only 6% used the lowest possible exposure settings. Concerning the use of radiation protection devices, 87.5% of participants wore a lead apron, 75% used a thyroid shield, 6.3% wore lead glasses, and 37.5% utilized suspended mobile screens, whereas 12.5% did not use any radiation protection devices. Additionally, 84% of participants wore their personal dosimeter, though not consistently. The knowledge and practices of most interventional radiology personnel are inadequate for effective radiation protection. Regular, ongoing training in radiation safety is essential to improve adherence to protection standards and enhance overall safety in clinical practice.

Need of Lead Apron in Digital Dental Radiography

Need of Lead Apron in Digital Dental Radiography

A Novel Shielding Device for Cardiac Cath Labs

Abstract This research evaluates the effectiveness of a large specialized cardiac catheterization laboratory shielding device (SCCLSD) placed perpendicular to the patient compared to traditional shielding methods in reducing occupational exposure to scattered x rays, contributing to the ongoing enhancement of radiation safety in the cardiac catheterization laboratory (CCL) setting. An experimental setup involving an anthropomorphic phantom on the catheterization table simulated radiation scatter from a patient. Measurements were taken systematically at various grid points and heights in the CCL using a Fluke 451P ion chamber while mimicking a real interventional scenario. In-air peak exposure rates were analyzed at head, chest, and waist heights in the anteroposterior (AP) position. Results demonstrated that the SCCLSD provided a superior radiation shadow and effective whole-body radiation exposure reduction compared to conventional shielding devices. Considering that conventional shielding requires staff to wear lead aprons, an effective dose equivalent correction factor was applied for exposure measurements without the SCCLSD. Even after the correction factor, the SCCLSD continued outperforming lead aprons and offered whole-body protection, including the head and arms, which is typically neglected with conventional shielding. The SCCLSD also reduces exposure to the eyes, aligning with lower occupational exposure recommendations from ICRP and NCRP. However, proper CCL staff positioning is important in maximizing the effectiveness of the SCCLSD. Future research avenues may explore exposure rates at different C-arm angles to more completely assess the SCCLSD’s impact on occupational exposure.

An In-depth Analysis of the Adverse Effects of Ionizing Radiation Exposure on Cardiac Catheterization Staffs.

Diagnostic and interventional angiograms are instrumental in the multidisciplinary approach to CAD management, enabling accurate diagnosis and effective targeted treatments that significantly enhance patient care and cardiovascular outcomes. However, cath lab staff, including interventional cardiologists, is consistently exposed to ionizing radiation, which poses inherent health risks. Radiation exposure in the cath lab primarily results from the use of fluoroscopy and cineangiography during diagnostic and interventional procedures. Understanding these risks and implementing effective radiation protection measurements are imperative to ensure the well-being of healthcare professionals while delivering high-quality cardiac care. Prolonged and repeated exposure can lead to both deterministic and stochastic effects. Deterministic effects, such as skin erythema and tissue damage, are more likely to occur at high radiation doses. Interventional cardiologists and staff may experience these effects when safety measures are not rigorously followed. In fact, while ionizing radiation is essential in the practice of radiation cardiology ward, cath lab staff faces inherent risks from radiation exposure. Stochastic effects, on the other hand, are characterized by a probabilistic relationship between radiation exposure and the likelihood of harm. These effects include the increased risk of cancer, particularly for those with long-term exposure. Interventional cardiologists, due to their frequent presence in the cath lab, face a higher lifetime cumulative radiation dose, potentially elevating their cancer risk. Protective measures, including the use of lead aprons, thyroid shields, and radiation monitoring devices, play a crucial role in reducing radiation exposure for cath lab personnel. Adherence to strict dose optimization protocols, such as minimizing fluoroscopy time and maximizing distance from the radiation source, is also essential in mitigating these risks. Ongoing research and advancements in radiation safety technology are essential in further for minimizing the adverse effects of ionizing radiation in the cath lab.

Uji Kelayakan Alat Pelindung diri Lead Apron di Instalasi Radiologi Rumah Sakit Daerah Mangusada Badung

Lead apron is a type of personal protective equipment in the form of an apron and made of lead which is designed to protect the body from the dangers of radiation. Menurut Keputusan Menteri Kesehatan Republik Indonesia Nomor 1250/MENKES/SK/XII/2009 regarding Quality Control Guidelines to protect the density and physical condition of the lead apron, testing is required once a year and may be carried out before one year if necessary. To maintain the quality of the lead apron, it needs to be stored in a good manner and avoid stacking and folding it. Because it can cause damage which will reduce its function as radiation protection equipment. Lead apron storage should be stored flat without folds or on a special shelf. The aim of this research is to test lead aprons in the Radiology Installation of Regional Hospitals Mangusada Badung to determine the feasibility of the lead apron. The type of research used is descriptive quantitative research with a survey approach, observation, namely by carrying out testing, measurement and documentation. This research was conducted in July. The results of this study indicate that lead apron testing in the Radiology Installation of Regional Hospitals Mangusada Badung What has been done is that the four lead aprons are still in good condition and still suitable for use.

Assessing the Use of Radiation Protection Equipment: A Cross-Sectional Survey Among Dental Students

Background: Proper radiation protection is crucial for minimizing exposure risks in dental radiography. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, awareness, and practices of dental students regarding radiation protection equipment. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted with 100 dental students, including third-year students, final-year students, interns, and postgraduates. The questionnaire assessed participants' understanding of radiation protection principles, use of protective equipment, and attitudes toward radiation safety. Data were analyzed using statistical methods, including chi-square tests. Results: The study found that 73% of participants had good knowledge and awareness of radiation protection equipment and radiation dosage. Despite this, adherence to recommended practices was poor. A significant association was observed between gender and the use of lead aprons during radiographs (p-value = 0.03), indicating a difference in practice based on gender. Conclusion: While dental students generally exhibit strong knowledge and awareness of radiation protection, there is a notable gap in the practical application of protective measures. The findings highlight the need for improved training and adherence to radiation safety practices to ensure the well-being of both patients and practitioners.

Advancements in Cardiac Catheterization Safety: Novel Radiation Protection Approaches Redefining Occupational Health.

Radiation exposure poses a substantial occupational risk for healthcare professionals in the catheterization laboratory (cath lab). The escalating complexity and frequency of interventional procedures, such as cardiac catheterizations and percutaneous coronary interventions, underscore the need for innovative strategies to mitigate radiation exposure. While traditional measures like lead aprons, thyroid collars, and goggles have been pivotal in reducing radiation exposure, they have limitations, especially during prolonged and intricate procedures. Consequently, there is a growing demand for advanced radiation protection methods that prioritize safety without compromising procedural efficacy. Recent strides in radiation protection technology have given rise to novel shielding devices and zero-radiation approaches tailored for cath lab use. The novel shields leverage innovative materials and designs to achieve superior attenuation of both scattered and direct radiation. Their ergonomic and adjustable features also ensure optimal shielding coverage without impeding the operator's skill or workflow. Multiple studies have validated the effectiveness of these advanced radiation protection methods in diminishing occupational radiation exposure in the cath lab. Initial findings suggest a significant reduction in doses for operators and staff, potentially lowering the risk of radiation-induced health complications over the long term. This article provides a comprehensive review of the current landscape of radiation protection shields in the cath lab, emphasizing the efficacy and potential of these cuttingedge shielding technologies.

Real-Time Dosimetry in Endourology: Tracking Staff Radiation Risks.

To retrospectively investigate scatter radiation (SCR) exposure among staff in the endourology operating theatre. During surgeries under fluoroscopic guidance, five professional groups (urological surgeon [US], surgical nurse [SN], assistant surgical nurse [ASN], anaesthetist [A], and anaesthesia care [AC]) wore real-time dosimeters (Philips DoseAware System) on their head and chest over lead aprons between July 2023 and February 2024. The SCR data were analysed and correlated with procedural and patient factors. In total, 249 procedures were performed, including 86 retrograde intrarenal surgeries and 10 percutaneous nephrolithotomies. Median SCR exposure was 38.81, 17.20, 7.71, 11.58, 0.63, 0.23, 0.12, and 0.15 Microsievert (µSv) for US chest (USC), US head (USH), SN chest (SNC), SN head (SNH), A chest (AC), AC chest (ACC), ASN chest (ASNC), and ASN head (ASNH), respectively. There was a significant correlation between DAP and SCR doses detected by USC, USH, SNC, SNH, AC, and ACC dosimeters (p < 0.05). The median chest-to-eye conversion factor (CECF) was 2.11 for the US and 0.71 for the SN. This study, using real-time dosimetry, is among the first to assess staff occupational SCR exposure in endourology. It highlights a substantial SCR exposure, indicating an occupational health hazard that warrants further investigation.

Radiation Exposure During Invasive Cardiovascular Procedures: Portable Shielding System Versus Standard Lead Aprons.

Introduction Significant progress in the field of interventional cardiology has led to a rise in percutaneous procedures and an increase in the risk of radiation exposure at the workplace. Staff health has been put at risk due to the limitations of conventional radiation protective techniques. Innovative methods, such as RAMPART, have promising prospects for enhancing radiation safety. The purpose of this study was to evaluate RAMPART's effectiveness and practicality in comparison to conventional protective techniques with a lead apron and shield (LAS) during cardiac interventional procedures. Method One hundred elective cardiac procedures were enrolled in this prospective single-center research study. Two groups were formed from the participants: standard protection (group A) and RAMPAT system (group B). Real-time dosimeters were used to track the radiation dosage, dosage reduction factor, dosage reduction percentage, and likelihood of exceeding the limit, which were included in the data. Proceduralists were urged to use different strategies to reduce exposure. The study was approved by an ethical committee and ran from June 2023 to August 2023. Results When comparing the RAMPART group to the conventional protection group, neck-level radiation exposure was considerably lower for all workers. There were no notable variations in the exposure of the waist. The RAMPART group was shown to be superior in minimizing radiation exposure, as evidenced by dose reduction metrics. The groups had comparable procedural characteristics. Conclusion Compared to conventional LAS, the RAMPART system dramatically reduces radiation exposure to the entire body.

Knowledge and Utilization of Sex-Specific Lead Aprons Among Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgeons.

Orthopaedic surgeons routinely face exposure to ionizing radiation during intraoperative use of fluoroscopy. Lead personal protective equipment reduces occupational radiation exposure. Female-specific lead aprons are designed with expanded lateral coverage to improve protection of breast tissue against radiation beams. The purpose of this study was to identify current trends in knowledge and utilization of female-specific lead aprons as well as any barriers to utilization. An anonymous electronic survey including 20 multiple choice and multiple selection responses was distributed to all members of the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America (POSNA). Respondents who reported the use of intraoperative fluoroscopy in their practice were included in the study. Most respondents were attending surgeons (91%) and practiced in an academic setting (85%) in an urban environment (75%). Most respondents reported using a lead apron for every case (76%) and a thyroid shield for every case (75%), while most respondents reported they do not wear lead glasses (73%). Fifty-one percent of respondents were aware of female-specific lead aprons. The majority of respondents reported female-specific lead is unavailable (45%) or available in insufficient quantities (5.5%) at their institution. Ninety percent of females reported they do not wear female-specific lead with the common reasons being lack of availability and discomfort. Knowledge of female-specific lead is low with lack of availability as a common barrier to utilization. As female presence in the field of orthopaedic surgery expands, efforts should be made to improve education and availability of sex-specific lead aprons.

699 Gender Inequality in Orthopaedic Radiation Protection: An Audit

Abstract Aim The literature demonstrates an increased prevalence of breast cancer in female orthopaedic surgeons compared to the population baseline. One contributor to this alarming statistic may be exposure to frequent low-dose radiation inherent to orthopaedics. The British Orthopaedic Association (BOA) has emphasised the importance of wearing lead aprons that provide adequate coverage, especially of the axillary region in women. To assess the availability of vests that fulfil such criteria, an audit of the lead aprons available at our local adult tertiary centre was undertaken. Method Lead protective equipment used by the orthopaedic theatres were documented by type, size, and brand. Data collection occurred prior to theatre activity requiring lead use, to ensure all equipment was present. Results 115 pieces of equipment were identified - 43 standard vests, 9 tabard gowns with side coverage, 4 tabard gowns without side coverage, 48 skirts and 11 thyroid covers. Vests, skirts, and tabard gowns ranged from XS (n=4), S (n=21), M (n=15), L (n=46), to XL (n=12), unidentifiable size (n=6). Vests, skirts and tabard gowns ranged from several different brands including Xenolite Male (n=45), Xenolite Female (n=29) and Kenex (n=23). No boleros, high axilla vests, or vests with wings/sleeves/axillary shields, were identified. Conclusions This audit demonstrated inadequate adherence to BOA recommendations and a lack of size diversity. With increasing numbers of women in orthopaedics, there is a need to raise more awareness and address this safety concern to mitigate a larger concerning trend.

Exoskeleton System for Radiation Protection in Interventional Radiology

Background: As the quantity and complexity of radiological interventions are constantly increasing, gear that offers optimal protection while maintaining mobility and a low weight burden is becoming more important. A newly developed exoskeleton radiation protection system (ERPS) (StemRad MD; StemRad Ltd.) can carry the weight of the shielding. The aim of our study was to analyze initial experience, especially in terms of advantages and disadvantages, with this new ERPS in interventional radiology.Materials and Methods: Forty-six interventions utilizing the ERPS were analyzed. The interventional radiologists completed a 15-question survey evaluating various aspects of the protective system, including weight, mobility, comfort, and radiation protection adequacy.Results and Discussion: In 98% of procedures, interventionalists reported being very satisfied (89%) or slightly satisfied (9%) and would recommend the system to colleagues. The exoskeleton system was rated as 100% comfortable, not too heavy, and did not restrict mobility in 98% of cases.Conclusion: The ERPS is a recommendable alternative to standard lead aprons, providing flexibility, comfort, and effective weight distribution without restricting mobility.

Prediction Model for Defects in Lead and Lead-free Aprons.

Personal radiation protective equipment (PRPE) is prone to defects in the attenuating layers, resulting in inadequate protection. Hence, quality control (QC) of PRPE is needed to assess its integrity. Unfortunately, QC of PRPE is laborious and time consuming. This study aimed to predict the QC outcome of PRPE without x-ray imaging based on readily available predictors. PRPE QC data of a general hospital from 2018 to 2023 was used for both prediction models based on logistic regression and random forests (RF). The data were divided into a training set containing all data from 2018 to 2022 and a holdout set containing the data from 2023. The predictors were brand, age, size, type, visual defects, and department. The prediction performances were compared using confusion matrices and visualized with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Prediction accuracies of at least 80% were achieved. Further model tuning especially improved the RF model to a precision up to 97% with a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 86%. All predictors, except visual defects, significantly impacted the probability of passing. The predictor brand had the largest contribution to the predictive performance. The difference in pass probability between the best-performing and the worst-performing brand was 35.1%. The results highlight the potential of predicting PRPE QC outcome without x rays. The proposed prediction approach is a significant contribution to an effective QC strategy by reducing time consuming x-ray QC tests and focusing on garments with higher probability of being defective. Further research is recommended.

Intraoperative Ionizing Radiation Exposure Awareness and Associated Morbidity in Neurosurgery: A Nationwide Survey

Neurosurgeons often use radiation to visualize blood vessels and implants intraoperatively. However, high exposure to radiation increases one's cancer risk. This study aims to investigate intraoperative ionizing radiation exposure awareness and associated morbidity among neurosurgeons. An anonymized 30-question survey about their intraoperative radiation exposure, protective measures, radiation knowledge, and any conditions that can arise from protracted radiation exposure was disseminated to 3344 American Association of Neurological Surgeons members. A total of 227 (6.8%) neurosurgeons completed the survey. Most neurosurgeons (61, 27%) performed 2-4 surgeries per week necessitating radiation (61, 27%), did not use a dosimeter (134, 59%), and wore a lead apron (89%) and a thyroid shield (75%). Only 7 (3%) of respondents could correctly identify the safety limit for occupational radiation. One hundred and thirty-four (59%) respondents correctly identified the relationship between distance and radiation dose reduction. Two hundred and thirteen (94%) neurosurgeons reported concern about occupational radiation exposure. No significant association was found between occupational radiation exposure and the rate of cataracts, combined cancer, and skin cancer. Multivariate logistic regression adjusting for age and cancer history found that the likelihood of developing leukemia (P= 0.02) and nonmalignant thyroid nodular disease (P= 0.01) is positively associated with increased total occupational radiation exposure. There is a need for improved radiation safety awareness among neurosurgeons, especially in the context of rising usage of minimally invasive surgery. This can allow for a greater understanding of radiation-associated risks among neurosurgeons and guide the implementation of safer practices.

Evaluating the Cumulative Effects of Fundamental Radiation Safety Measures on Health Professionals in Cath Lab

Objectives: The significant rise in modern cath lab units has led to a proportionate increase in cath lab procedures and subsequent radiation environment may elevate the occupational radiation exposure to staff. This study aimed to assess the collective impact of fundamental radiation safety devices in the cath lab on decreasing occupational radiation exposure to staff. Methods: This study was conducted in our cath lab room, equipped with a Siemens Artis cath lab unit. Measurements were performed using RaySafe X2 detectors and Thermo Luminescent Dosimeters (TLDs). Dose assessments were conducted without safety measures and then found a considerable reduction of dose by adding basic radiation safety measures. Findings: The use of lead aprons resulted in a substantial reduction( 92%) in radiation dose. The effect of time and distance versus dose was plotted. The impact of lead flaps and the use of a ceiling suspension shield quantify reductions in scattered doses. The cumulative impact of each safety measure was calculated, and the outcome indicates a 99% reduction in dose. The importance of utilizing all available protective measures when working with radiation cannot be overstated. It is essential for maximizing safety, minimizing risks, and fostering a culture of safety within radiation environments like cath labs. Novelty: This is a thorough assessment of different radiation protection strategies in the specific setting of a Cath lab. It not only evaluates individual measures but also considers their combined impact and the calculation based on the exit dose from the patient. Keywords: Cardiologist, Radiation Dose, Interventional Radiology, Radiation protection, Cath lab

In-depth exploration of the radiation exposure to staff performing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography procedures (ERCP) through RANDO phantom and TLDs.

This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the occupational radiation exposure faced by healthcare professionals during Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedures. Utilizing an anthropomorphic RANDO phantom equipped with Thermoluminescent Dosimeters (TLDs), we replicated ERCP scenarios to measure radiation doses received by medical staff. The study meticulously assessed radiation exposure in various corresponding body regions typically occupied by medical staff during ERCP, with a focus on eyes, thyroid, hands, and reproductive corresponding organ regions. The findings revealed significant variations in radiation doses across different body parts, highlighting areas of higher exposure and underscoring the need for improved protective measures and procedural adjustments. The effective radiation doses were calculated using standard protocols, considering the varying levels of protection offered by lead aprons and thyroid shields. The results demonstrate the substantial radiation exposure experienced by healthcare staff, particularly in regions not adequately shielded. This study emphasizes the necessity for enhanced radiation safety protocols in clinical settings, advocating for advanced protective equipment, training in radiation safety, and the exploration of alternative imaging modalities. The findings have crucial implications for both patient and staff safety, ensuring the continued efficacy and safety of ERCP and similar interventional procedures. This research contributes significantly to the field of occupational health and safety in interventional radiology, providing vital data for the development of safer medical practices.

Protecting Our Own: A Method for Reducing Breast Radiation Exposure in Healthcare Workers.

Standard lead aprons do not protect the female breast adequately from radiation exposure, which has been associated with breast cancer in healthcare workers. A novel lead shield was designed to reduce radiation to the breast, axilla, and thyroid (BAT). A procedure room was simulated with an anthropomorphic phantom representing the operator. Dosimeters were positioned on the outer quadrant of each breast, the chest, the thyroid, and deep inside of a phantom acrylic female torso with neck and head. Standard lead vest plus a thyroid shield was used as control and compared to standard lead vest plus BAT shield. Three operator and two image receptor positions were tested. The reductions in radiation exposure were calculated. The standard vest plus BAT shield provided significant reductions in radiation exposure for all anatomic locations compared to control. When averaging all operator positions, the BAT provided reductions of 91% (p < 0.0001) for near breast. Reductions for far breast, chest, thyroid, and deep tissues were 76% (p = 0.016), 94% (p < 0.0001), 52% (p = 0.026), and 60% (p = 0.004). With operator 90° to the table using a cross-table lateral beam, the BAT provided a 97.7% reduction in radiation to the near breast and significant reduction in radiation to the chest, thyroid, and deep tissues. The BAT shield reduces radiation exposure to the breast, chest, thyroid and deep hematopoietic tissues. Such shields could benefit healthcare workers to reduce the risk of breast cancer and other radiation-associated cancers.