Due to the (potentially) negative long-term effects of radiation, the question whether the examination is indicated should be considered critically. Key questions include:
- Is an X-ray/CT examination the only way to answer the question? Consider alternatives such as ultrasound and MRI.
- Will the examination impact treatment? Will the outcome impact strategy?
When an examination is indicated, an effort is made to protect hospital staff as much as possible against the radiation; during the test, the staff will stand behind a lead screen/lead wall.
Radioscopy images are used for interventions and in some cases surgery. When during radioscopy people cannot leave the room, there are various protective options (fig. 2).
Radioscopy images are used for interventions and in some cases surgery. When during radioscopy people cannot leave the room, there are various protective options (fig. 2).
- Lead apron: the lead apron protects the mammae/lungs/colon/stomach/esophagus/liver/bladder/gonads.
- Thyroid shield: in addition to the lead apron, a thyroid shield may be used when a large number of (prolonged) procedures with high-intensity scattered radiation are used.
- Lead glasses: the use of lead glasses is not standard, but they can be worn in view of the increased risk of radiation-induced cataract. Intervention radiologists and intervention cardiologists in particular are at increased risk of reaching their dosage in view of the large number of (prolonged) procedures.
Other options include lead gloves, face shield and lead caps. These are used only very rarely.
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