One step forward, one step back; A study of the exposure to radiation of medical personnel during cardiac catheterization

Radiation doses received by medical personnel while working in a cardiac catheterization room were determined by measuring the exposure rates around the examination table, a water phantom taking the place of a patient, measuring the doses actually received by the personnel during 14 catheterizations and estimating the time that the personnel spent at different places during the procedure and the time spent on duty during a year. Exposure rates are highest in two situations, namely when the X-ray tube is turned towards the cardiologist, and when the equipment is used for making cine-films. Doses for all personnel remained below the maximum permissible limits. Measures aiming at a further lowering of the doses include increasing the distance between personnel and patient (stepping back) and using smaller diaphragms; they will be most effective in the high exposure rate situations, mentioned above.