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Topic of the Month: Radiation Protection

The rise of endovascular procedures in vascular surgery has increased the radiation burden on both patients and caregivers, raising concerns about both deterministic and stochastic biological effects.

Deterministic effects are predictable and occur when a certain threshold dose of radiation is exceeded. Stochastic effects, on the other hand, are unpredictable as DNA alterations can occur even at very low radiation doses. These alterations can lead to solid cancers or leukemia, which may manifest years after exposure.

Interventional cardiologists and vascular surgeons are at an increased risk of developing stochastic effects due to their occupational exposure to radiation. While most DNA alterations are rapidly repaired, some individuals may be more susceptible to developing these effects. This chapter reviews the main principles defining good radiation protection practices, the rules of optimal use to limit the dose delivered/received during interventions, and the different types of personal protective equipment.

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