Estimation of Physicians’ Radiation Eye Dose during Interventional Hepatology Procedures

Abstract

Purpose: A number of interventional radiology (IVR) procedures in hepatology have been performed in the past, mainly transcatheter arterial embolization and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization. Radiation used for fluoroscopy during the procedure plays an extremely important role in hepatology IVR procedures, and the evaluation of the physician’s lens radiation dose, Hp(3), during these procedures is extremely important. Methods: In this study, the lens radiation exposure of 4 physicians engaged in interventional hepatology procedures was measured. A lens-specific dosimeter was attached near the left eye, and the estimated dose was recorded over a period of almost 5 years (October 2017–August 2022). Annual estimated doses were calculated from the accumulated doses, compared to the lens equivalent dose limits and threshold doses, and the average dose per procedure was calculated by the number of procedures performed. Results: Although no physician exceeded the lens equivalent dose limit of 20 mSv/year, there were physicians who exceeded 10 mSv/year, which was calculated by dividing the threshold dose of 0.5 Gy for cataracts by a 50-year work period. Conclusion: In interventional hepatology procedures, the exposure to the lens of the physician cannot be ignored, and it is important to take thorough protective measures to reduce exposure, not only for the main physician but also for the second assistant.