Make Radiation Protection a Habit

This review describes the basic concepts and methods for optimization of occupational dose in the interventional suite. In fluoroscopy, the source of virtually all radiation exposure to the operator is scattered radiation from the patient. All other things being equal, reducing patient radiation dose will reduce operator and staff dose. Most tools and methods of occupational radiation protection are entirely operator dependent. These methods must be used routinely and properly to be effective. Your occupational dose depends on how well you follow good radiation protection practices and on the kinds of procedures you do. The only way to know your own occupational dose is to wear your dosimeters for every case. If proper protection practices are followed and appropriate protection tools are used, annual effective dose for an interventionalist should be well below 10 mSv/y, and will more likely be in the range of 2-4 mSv/y. However, if proper protection practices and tools are not used, annual effective doses may be much higher. You should review your own doses periodically.