Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Neuroendovascular procedures expose surgeons and patients to significant radiation, increasing long-term health risks. Despite the known effects of imaging parameters on radiation exposure, the relative impacts of different imaging and shielding strategies have been less studied. We aimed to assess the effects of digital subtraction angiography parameter modifications on operator and patient radiation doses.
METHODS:
Using a phantom skull in a neuroendovascular suite, radiation was measured under varying digital subtraction angiography settings, including image intensifier distance, collimation, magnification, frame rate, and protective shielding. Operator exposure was recorded using a dosimeter, and patient dose was obtained from the angiography system. Each configuration was tested in 3 independent trials. One-way ANOVA was used to determine statistical significance.
RESULTS:
Lowering the frame rate (5.2-fold) and moving the image intensifier closer to the patient (3.5-fold) significantly reduced operator exposure (
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CONCLUSIONS:
Low frame rates, close image intensifier positioning, minimal magnification, and double shielding substantially reduce radiation risk for both operators and patients. These evidence-based configurations provide a practical framework for safer neuroendovascular procedures.