THE PROBLEM OF EXCESSIVE RADIATION DURING ROUTINE INVESTIGATIONS OF THE HEART

Abstract

An account of measurements made during routine cases of angiocardiography and cardiac catheterization is given. Details of the possible doses to the patient and those assisting in the procedure are computed and suggestions made as to means whereby these doses can be kept within the permitted maximum dose. There is a risk that the patient may recive a skin dose sufficient to produce a burn. It was not thought that the total radiation would usually have any harmful effect otherwise. The time factor must not be neglected and all X-ray investigations must be included in assessing the total skin dose, (chest films, fluoroscopy, study during catheterization and angiocardiocardiography). (Total skin dose may average 136 r.). If a patient has received about 150 r,, he should not have any further radiation to the same area for a period of at least 14 days, and in any yr. should not receive such a dose on more than 3 or 4 occasions. The physician must be adequately protected by lead screening and he should not do more than 2 or 3 investigations a week. A summary of dosage to the physicians during catheterization is given.