Air kerma rates measurement in an interventional cardiology suite

In Interventional Cardiology (IC), the assessment of the radiation that the physicians are exposed to is extremely important because the irradiation is not uniform and the received doses are substantially high. During the procedure, the radiation control is complex and there are several reasons for the high exposure levels. It is necessary to perform dosimetric assessments in different parts of the physicians' body and in different specific points of the examination room. By analyzing this information it is possible to determine the probable causes and to provide recommendations, aiming at optimizing the radiological protection. This work had the following objectives: to assess the exposition levels at representative points of critical anatomical regions of the physicians' body who perform IC examinations; to provide means to implement personal monitoring procedures; and to make them aware of the radiation risks. Measurements of air kerma rates were performed in 45 points around the examination table, along the room. Such measurements were made in the conditions frequently used in coronary angiography and coronary angioplasties procedures: adult patient phantom; RAO, LAO and AP incidences; fluoro and digital modes; 13cm and 17cm magnification modes; frequencies of 30f/s (fluoro) and 15 f/s (digital); typical field size used during examinations. Data were obtained at the lenses, chest, hands, gonads and knees levels. For AP incidence, the lowest contributions for scattered radiation and a more homogeneous distribution of radiation were observed. The highest air kerma rates were obtained during digital acquisition mode and for LAO incidence on interventional radiologists, anaesthesists and nurses. The most critical anatomical regions were the knees and gonads. Air kerma rates of about 7,8mGy/h were registered in some places. At physicians' hands position, rates of about 5mGy/h were reached. In several points and levels measured (workload ∼ 6 examinations/day), this air kerma rates would produce a higher dose than the annual limits. This work shows the need to implement additional protection devices; to elaborate safety guidelines; to train staff on radiological protection, and to implement the use of additional dosemeters attached to critical points. (author)