Potential Fetal Radiation Exposure Among Invasive Cardiologists
Publication Title
American College of Cardiology (ACC) Meeting, April 2024, Atlanta, GA
Document Type
Abstract
Publication Date
4-2024
Keywords
oregon; cards; cards abstract
Abstract
Background
Women remain underrepresented in interventional cardiology (IC) and electrophysiology (EP). The impact of potential radiation exposure on childbearing has been cited as a deterrent. We measured potential fetal exposure in contemporary cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology laboratories.
Methods
High-volume IC and EP operators wore radiation dosimetry badges at waist level under standard lead aprons for 2-3 months. Estimated patient exposures were collected, including fluoroscopy time (FT), Fractional Air Kerma (FAK), and dose area product (DAP) as well as procedure volume.
Results
Mean monthly fetal dosimetry was 0.007mSv (0mSv-0.03mSv) for IC and 0.01mSv (0mSv-0.06mSv) for EP operators. IC and EP operators performed an average of 41.7 and 18.3 monthly procedures respectively, with mean estimated patient exposure of 885.6 and 180.7 minutes FT, respectively, and 21,077.7 and 2,593.4 mGy FAK, respectively. Mean monthly doses and case types are summarized in Figure 1. Extrapolation of dosimetry data collected during the study period to a 40-week pregnancy would result in a fetal radiation dose well below the limit recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (1 mSv) in all operators studied.
Conclusion
High volume IC and EP operators incurred trivial under-the-apron potential fetal radiation exposure while using radiation safety best practices.
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Footnotes
Moderated Poster Contributions
Moderated Poster Theater 04
Monday, April 8, 2024, 9:15 a.m.-9:25 a.m.
Session Title: Promoting Quality and Safety in the Catheterization Laboratory
Abstract Category: 19. Interventional and Structural: Special Populations
Presentation Number: 1100-05
Area of Special Interest
Cardiovascular (Heart)
Area of Special Interest
Women & Children
Specialty/Research Institute
Cardiology
Specialty/Research Institute
Perinatology/Neonatology
DOI
10.1016/S0735-1097(24)02873-0