Radiation dose reduction during neuroendovascular procedures

J Neurointerv Surg. 2018 May;10(5):481-486. doi: 10.1136/neurintsurg-2017-013189. Epub 2017 Sep 23.

Abstract

Aim: To describe the impact of steps towards reduction of procedural doses of radiation during neuroendovascular procedures.

Methods: Phantom exposures under controlled circumstances were performed using a Rando-Alderson adult-sized head phantom. Customized imaging protocols were devised for pediatric and adult imaging and implemented in clinical use. Outcome data for estimated skin doses (ESD) and dose-area product (DAP) following pediatric and adult diagnostic and interventional procedures over 4.5 years were analyzed retrospectively.

Results: Dose estimates were reduced by 50% or more after introduction of customized imaging protocols in association with modification of personnel behavior compared with doses recorded with previously used vendor-recommended protocols.

Discussion: Substantial reductions in radiation use during neuroendovascular procedures can be achieved through a combination of equipment modification and operator behavior.

Keywords: angiography.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Endovascular Procedures / instrumentation*
  • Endovascular Procedures / methods
  • Fluoroscopy / instrumentation
  • Fluoroscopy / methods
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Phantoms, Imaging*
  • Radiation Dosage*
  • Radiography, Interventional / instrumentation*
  • Radiography, Interventional / methods
  • Retrospective Studies