Changes in dose-area product, entrance surface dose, and lens dose to the radiologist in a vascular interventional laboratory when an old X-ray system is exchanged with a new system.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to compare dose-area product (DAP), entrance surface dose (ESD), and lens dose to radiologists for an old and a new X-ray system in a vascular interventional laboratory.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

DAP, ESD, fluoroscopy time, number of images, and patient weight were recorded for patients undergoing the following four procedures: percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) and stenting (divided into two subgroups, lower extremities and pelvis), nephrostomy, and treatment for varicocele. Halfway through the registration period, the 9-year-old X-ray equipment was exchanged with a new system. Lens doses to the radiologist were measured.

RESULTS

There was a reduction in DAP for all procedures: PTA lower extremities 31% (12-8 Gy cm(2)), PTA/stenting pelvis 67% (134-44 Gy cm(2)), nephrostomy 39% (7-4 Gy cm(2)), and varicocele 70% (37-11 Gy cm(2)). The reduction in number of images was 17% (158-131), 23% (153-118), 68% (2-1), and 31% (50-35), explaining a part of the dose reduction. The reduction in ESD was 33, 60, 38, and 46%. The differences in measured lens doses indicate a dose reduction in three procedures (19-53%) and an increase in one (56%), but differences are not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

DAP and ESD from the X-ray system were reduced for all procedures. The reduction was greater in the more radiation-demanding procedures.