Radiation Dose and Cancer Risk of Cardiac Electrophysiology Procedures

Background & Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effective dose and organ dose of radiation exposure in patients undergoing cardiac electrophysiology (EP) procedures and to estimate the risk of cancer by measuring the effective dose in staff members. Materials and Methods: We calculated the dose by using the value of the dose-area product (DAP) to check the exposure dose in patients and staff members during EP procedures. The dose and cancer risk in staff members were estimated after the procedure by reading the optically stimulated luminescent dosimeter (OSL) attached to the radiation protection equipment. Results: The study duration was 3 months. The total number of procedures was 89 cases (electrophysiology study [EPS] and catheter ablation: 62 cases [including 21 atrial fibrillation ablation], and pacemaker implantations: 27 cases). The mean effective dose in the primary operator over 3 months was 1.6 mSv, with a 1-year conversion of 6.4 mSv. The lifetime attributable risk of cancer (LAR) for a male primary operator with an annual exposure dose of 6.4 mSv who worked from age 18 to 65, assuming continuous exposure, for all cancers would be an incidence of 1,958 per 100,000 people. In addition, the calculated mortality rate would be 1 in 92, or 1.08%. Conclusion: EP procedures are associated with occupational radiation exposure and an increased lifetime attributable risk of cancer. Efforts should be made to minimize the radiation exposure of patients and medical staff members.

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