Radiation Protection of the Eye Lens in Fluoroscopy-guided Interventional Procedures

Abstract

The medical staff involved in fluoroscopy-guided procedures are at potential risks of radiation-induced cataract. Therefore, proper monitoring of the lens doses is critical, and radiation protection should be provided to the maximum extent that is reasonably achievable. The collar dosimeter is necessary to avoid underestimation of the lens dose, and the third dosimeter behind the protective eyewear would be helpful for those who are likely to exceed the dose limit. The reduction of the patient doses will correspondingly reduce the staff doses. Proper placement of the ceiling-mounted shields and minimization of the face-to-glass gap are the keys to effective shielding. The optimization of procedures and devices that help maintain a distance from the irradiated area and to prevent the looking-up posture will substantially reduce the lens dose.