Evaluation of the Effectiveness of the Lead Aprons and Thyroid Shields Worn by Cardiologists in Angiography Departments of Two Main General Hospitals in Mashhad, Iran

• Published in: Journal of nuclear science and technology Vol. 45; no. sup5; pp. 159 - 162
• Main Authors: Bahreyni Toossi, M. T., Zare, H., Bayani, Sh, Esmaili, S.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis 01.06.2008
• Subjects: angiography; cardiovascular; lead apron; thyroid shield; TLD
• ISSN: 0022-3131; 1881-1248
• DOI: 10.1080/00223131.2008.10875811

In recent years coronary artery angiography and angioplasty procedures have become very popular. Consequently radiation protection of the cardiologists, their assistants and technicians working in the vicinity of the x-ray tube is essential. Although in recent years in developed countries, high dose x-ray examinations such as coronary angiography have attracted the attention of health physicists but in developing countries it may take some years before it would receive any attention. In Iran generally film badge is the most common personal radiation monitoring device used for this purpose; it is placed beneath the lead apron. The shielding effect of different lead aprons and thyroid shields have been evaluated. TL dosimeters, suitably calibrated, were placed over and under lead shields corresponding to the thyroid and gonad positions of the personnel. 233 angiography examinations by femoral route were included in this work. Four types of aprons and three types of thyroid shields were examined. They were different in shape and lead equivalent thickness. Our results have revealed that apron with 0.35 mmPb, one piece and front closed has maximum shielding effect. Also thyroid shield with 0.5 mmPb and very large edge provide a better protection against radiation than other types.