Objectives: The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate effective dose (E) of operators performing transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) in a single centre. Patients' radiation exposure was also collected.
Methods: Between 8/2015 and 6/2016, 45 consecutive TIPS were performed in adult patients using a flat-panel detector-based system (FPDS) and real-time ultrasound guidance (USG) for portal vein targeting. Electronic personal dosimeters were used to measure radiation doses to the primary and assistant operators, anaesthesia nurse and radiographer. Patients' radiation exposure was measured with dose area product (DAP); fluoroscopy time (FT) was also collected.
Results: Mean E for the primary operator was 1.40 μSv (SD 2.68, median 0.42, range 0.12 - 12.18), for the assistant operator was 1.29 μSv (SD 1.79, median 0.40, range 0.10 - 4.89), for the anaesthesia nurse was 0.21 μSv (SD 0.67, median 0.10, range 0.03 - 3.99), for the radiographer was 0.42 μSv (SD 0.71, median 0.25, range 0.03 - 2.67). Mean patient DAP was 59.31 GyCm2 (SD 56.91, median 31.58, range 7.66 - 281.40); mean FT was 10.20 min (SD 7.40, median 10.40, range 3.8 - 31.8).
Conclusion: The use of FPDS and USG for portal vein targeting allows a reasonably low E to operators performing TIPS.
Key points: • The operators' E vary according to the complexity of the procedure. • FPDS and USG allow a reasonably low E to TIPS operators. • FPDS and USG have an important role in reducing the occupational exposure.
Keywords: Liver; Occupational exposure; Radiation protection; TIPS; Ultrasound.