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PurposeTo describe the technique and document utility of adjunctive cone-beam CT (CBCT) in patients undergoing bronchial artery embolization (BAE) or chemoinfusion (BAC).Materials and methodsBetween August 2010 and February 2021, 26 patients (62 bronchial arteries) were evaluated with CBCT in addition to the usual digital subtraction angiography (DSA) during BAE or BAC. 19 patients (43 arteries) underwent BAE for hemoptysis; 7 patients (19 arteries) had BAC for palliation of lung malignancy. Retrospective review of procedural reports and the archived DSA and CBCT images was assessed for (1) whether CBCT findings added unique diagnostic information prior to treatment of target arteries compared to DSA alone; and (2) whether these unique CBCT findings led to modification of embolization or chemoinfusion technique.ResultsIn 61 of 62 (98%) interrogated bronchial arteries, CBCT provided additional unique diagnostic information over planar DSA, primarily cross-sectional assessment of the spinal canal for spinal arteries. In 46/62 (74%) of the bronchial arteries the unique information did not lead to a change in therapeutic technique. In 15 bronchial arteries (24%), the added information from CBCT led to change in embolization and/or chemoinfusion technique. Embolization of one small unrecognized spinal artery branch (1.6%), which was missed intra-procedurally but retrospectively seen on CBCT led to transient spinal cord ischemia.ConclusionsThese results suggest that adjunctive use of CBCT technique may improve diagnostic confidence from information provided by DSA in nearly all cases of BAE and BAC leading to improved therapeutic targeting or change in technique of embolization or chemoinfusion.

Objective: Recent articles discussing cases of brain cancer in interventionalists have raised concerns regarding the hazards of occupational exposure to ionizing radiation. We review the basics of radiation dose and the potential radiation effects, particularly as they pertain to the operator. Then we present the data regarding the risk of each type of radiation effect to the fluoroscopy operator and staff, with special attention on cancer induction, radiation-induced cataracts, and the pregnant operator., Conclusion: Although the evidence overwhelmingly shows that exposure to higher doses of radiation carries a risk of cancer and tissue reactions, the risks of chronic exposure to low-level radiation are less clear. Many studies examining occupational exposure to radiation fail to show an increased risk of stochastic effects of radiation, but the positive results raise concern that the studies are underpowered to consistently detect the small risk. The lack of information in these studies about radiation doses and adherence to radiation protection further confound their interpretation. Large prospective studies of populations with occupational exposure to low-level radiation might clarify this issue. More clearly established are the risks of radiation to the fetus and the risk of cataracts in interventional cardiologists and interventional radiologists. Interventionalists can mitigate these risks by following established radiation safety practices.

Objective: The purposes of this article are to review available data regarding the range of protection devices and garments with a focus on eye protection and to summarize techniques for reducing scatter radiation exposure., Conclusion: Fluoroscopy operators and staff can greatly reduce their radiation exposure by wearing properly fitted protective garments, positioning protective devices to block scatter radiation, and adhering to good radiation practices. By understanding the essentials of radiation physics, protective equipment, and the features of each imaging system, operators and staff can capitalize on opportunities for radiation protection while minimizing ergonomic strain. Practicing and promoting a culture of radiation safety can help fluoroscopy operators and staff enjoy long, productive careers helping patients.