A Lead Rectangle to Lower the Operator's Radiation Exposure

During fluoroscopic imaging, diagnostic information is carried in the primary beam. These high intensity X-rays are the chief hazard to the patient. Lower energy scattered radiation deviates in all directions from the patient. Despite typical precautions (i.e., hanging a lead shield between the patient and the operator), many operators will be exposed to high radiation dose (higher than the permitted 50 miliS per year), this long term radiation exposure may result in stochastic and deterministic effects. The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that a non disposable radiation protection drape (that will cover the lower part of the patient) could help minimize the radiation scattered from the patient to the operator. In a procedure done through the Radial approach, there is a large portion of the patients (from the umbilicus and down) that is a source of scatter radiation to the operator. This portion can be covered with a lead rectangle. A non disposable, lead drape of uniform thickness will be inserted into a sterile nylon bag and will be used during fluoroscopic and cineangiography coronary angioplasty procedures. The lead drapes will cover the femoral puncture site. The widths and length of the drape is 50-60cm and 100 cm respectively and was shown not to hinder the field of radiation needed for fluoroscopy and cineangiography. (The upper border of the lead is under the patient\'s umbilicus and was shown not to interfere with the radiation field needed for angiography or angioplasty). The Investigators anticipate that the study will show a significant reduction in radiation exposure and hence reduce the radiation hazard to the operator.