Journal of Radiation Protection and Research

The Korean Association for Radiation Protection (대한방사선방어학회)
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Exoskeleton System for Radiation Protection in Interventional Radiology

  • Clarissa Hosse (Institute of Radiology, Charite - Universitatsmedizin Berlin (Charite - Berlin University Medicine), Corporate Member of Freie Universitat and Humboldt Universitat zu Berlin) ;
  • Johannes Kolck (Institute of Radiology, Charite - Universitatsmedizin Berlin (Charite - Berlin University Medicine), Corporate Member of Freie Universitat and Humboldt Universitat zu Berlin) ;
  • Elif Can (Institute of Radiology, Charite - Universitatsmedizin Berlin (Charite - Berlin University Medicine), Corporate Member of Freie Universitat and Humboldt Universitat zu Berlin) ;
  • Uli Fehrenbach (Institute of Radiology, Charite - Universitatsmedizin Berlin (Charite - Berlin University Medicine), Corporate Member of Freie Universitat and Humboldt Universitat zu Berlin) ;
  • Timo A. Auer (Institute of Radiology, Charite - Universitatsmedizin Berlin (Charite - Berlin University Medicine), Corporate Member of Freie Universitat and Humboldt Universitat zu Berlin) ;
  • Fabio Pivetta (Institute of Radiology, Charite - Universitatsmedizin Berlin (Charite - Berlin University Medicine), Corporate Member of Freie Universitat and Humboldt Universitat zu Berlin) ;
  • Federico Collettini (Institute of Radiology, Charite - Universitatsmedizin Berlin (Charite - Berlin University Medicine), Corporate Member of Freie Universitat and Humboldt Universitat zu Berlin) ;
  • Bernhard Gebauer (Institute of Radiology, Charite - Universitatsmedizin Berlin (Charite - Berlin University Medicine), Corporate Member of Freie Universitat and Humboldt Universitat zu Berlin) ;
  • Maximilian de Bucourt (Institute of Radiology, Charite - Universitatsmedizin Berlin (Charite - Berlin University Medicine), Corporate Member of Freie Universitat and Humboldt Universitat zu Berlin)
  • Received : 2023.12.30
  • Accepted : 2024.06.25
  • Published : 2024.06.30
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Abstract

Background: As the quantity and complexity of radiological interventions are constantly increasing, gear that offers optimal protection while maintaining mobility and a low weight burden is becoming more important. A newly developed exoskeleton radiation protection system (ERPS) (StemRad MD; StemRad Ltd.) can carry the weight of the shielding. The aim of our study was to analyze initial experience, especially in terms of advantages and disadvantages, with this new ERPS in interventional radiology. Materials and Methods: Forty-six interventions utilizing the ERPS were analyzed. The interventional radiologists completed a 15-question survey evaluating various aspects of the protective system, including weight, mobility, comfort, and radiation protection adequacy. Results and Discussion: In 98% of procedures, interventionalists reported being very satisfied (89%) or slightly satisfied (9%) and would recommend the system to colleagues. The exoskeleton system was rated as 100% comfortable, not too heavy, and did not restrict mobility in 98% of cases. Conclusion: The ERPS is a recommendable alternative to standard lead aprons, providing flexibility, comfort, and effective weight distribution without restricting mobility.

Keywords

References

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