Comparative Study of Patient Dose Indicators in Cardiology Procedures Using Angiography Systems with Different Technologies

Abstract

Interventional radiology plays a key role in hemodynamic procedures by enabling minimally invasive diagnoses and treatments. However, exposure to ionizing radiation remains a concern for both patients and healthcare professionals. This study aims to compare typical values of dose indicators—cumulative air kerma (Ka) and kerma-area product (PKA)—and fluoroscopy time, in association with the anthropometric characteristics of patients undergoing cardiac procedures using angiography systems with different technologies, installed in the hemodynamics unit of a large hospital. Retrospective data from 509 clinical procedures performed on angiography systems of different technological generations were analyzed, including two modern systems (manufactured in 2023) and one older system (manufactured in 2011), all using flat-panel detectors. Dose indicators were obtained from equipment reports and institutional records, along with patient body mass index (BMI) and fluoroscopy time. Among all cases, coronary angiography accounted for 55%, elective angioplasty for 22%, and combined angiography with angioplasty for 15%. The results show that, despite similar patient profiles (BMI) and comparable fluoroscopy times across the rooms, dose indicator values varied significantly among systems with different technologies, with the oldest angiograph delivering considerably higher radiation doses. This study highlights the importance of routinely monitoring dose indicators and exposure parameters in interventional radiology procedures and underscores the impact that technological modernization can have on reducing patient radiation exposure.