Abstract
It is important to optimize the exposure dose when conducting interventional radiology, but optimization is difficult for medical centers to achieve independently. In 2005, we administered a questionnaire on the measurement of dose rates and awareness of exposure reduction when performing percutaneous coronary intervention. Ten years later, we conducted a follow-up survey of the same 31 centers to determine the current situation and identify trends. The results of the survey showed that the mean fluoroscopy dose rate decreased to 55% of the 2005 value, from 28.2 to 15.6 mGy/min, and the mean radiography dose rate decreased to 71% of the 2005 value, from 4.2 to 3.0 mGy/s. Dose rates for both fluoroscopy and radiography decreased by 84% of facilities. The results also indicated greater cooperation by physicians compared to 10 years ago. In particular, there was a considerable increase in the exchange of ideas with physicians regarding exposure, suggesting a stronger level of interest in exposure. The overall score for questionnaire items was 33% higher than that in the previous survey. These results show that in the past 10 years, awareness of exposure reduction has improved, and dose optimization has been a major factor in the downward trend in dose rates in radiography and fluoroscopy.
