Performance of a radiation protection cabin during extraction of cardiac devices.

BACKGROUND: Operators who extract cardiac devices are exposed to considerable irradiation and excess risk of radiation-induced disorders. A dedicated radioprotection cabin was developed to offer complete protection against radiation. This randomized study was designed to ascertain the protection against radiation conferred by a radioprotection cabin and the safety during extraction of cardiac devices. METHODS: Thirty-seven consecutive patients who presented with an indication for extraction of a cardiac device were randomly assigned to a standard extraction technique (n = 19), vs extraction with the use of a radiation protection cabin (n = 18). Fluoroscopic exposure was compared using electronic dosimeters placed on the thorax, back, foot, and head of the operator. RESULTS: The procedural times and total fluoroscopic exposure times and the complication rates were not significantly different between the 2 groups. The mean dose of radiation delivered to the thorax and back was similar in both groups (P = 0.3 and P = 0.8, respectively). In contrast, the mean doses of radiation delivered to the head and to the feet were respectively 68 and 390 times less in the cabin group than in the control group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The cabin offers nearly full body radioprotection and eliminates the need to wear a lead apron, without increasing procedural time or complication rate during cardiac device extraction.