Radiation dose reduction during neuroendovascular procedures.

AIM: To describe the impact of steps towards reduction of procedural doses of radiation during neuroendovascular procedures.

METHODS: Phantom exposures under controlled circumstances were performed using a Rando-Alderson adult-sized head phantom. Customized imaging protocols were devised for pediatric and adult imaging and implemented in clinical use. Outcome data for estimated skin doses (ESD) and dose-area product (DAP) following pediatric and adult diagnostic and interventional procedures over 4.5 years were analyzed retrospectively.

RESULTS: Dose estimates were reduced by 50% or more after introduction of customized imaging protocols in association with modification of personnel behavior compared with doses recorded with previously used vendor-recommended protocols.

DISCUSSION: Substantial reductions in radiation use during neuroendovascular procedures can be achieved through a combination of equipment modification and operator behavior.