RADIATION EXPOSURE OF RADIOLOGISTS DURING ANGIOGRAPHY - DOSE MEASUREMENTS OUTSIDE THE LEAD APRON

The aim of this study was to provide practical information to angiogra phers concerning radiation exposure to body parts not covered by lead aprons. Individual doses to the neck and hands of radiologists measure d in micro-Sieverts were obtained during the course of 80 angiographie s of various types. The number of diagnostic and interventional proced ures, which might lead to exceeding permissible doses, have been calcu lated. Possibilities of estimating doses during angiography by means o f parameters such as screening times were examined statistically. Espe cially with regard to the hands, estimations of the doses are insuffic ient (correlation r = 0.21). Radiologists who undertake much angiograp hic and particularly interventional work may reach exposure levels req uiring protective measures in addition to lead aprons.