Spatial distribution of X-ray attenuation in a full-face shield: a multipoint in vivo study in interventional cardiology.

Occupational radiation exposure remains a critical concern in interventional cardiology, particularly regarding brain and ocular protection. This study evaluates the protective efficacy of a 0.12 mmPb leaded acrylic full-face shield through a series of comprehensive in vivo dose measurements conducted on a primary cardiologist during real-time fluoroscopy procedures. The cardiologist was equipped with a tight-fitting elastic mask where 29 small pockets were distributed across the head, housing 29 thermoluminescent dosemeters (TLD) calibrated in Hp(0.07). Two series of measurements were conducted: the first using the leaded acrylic face shield without protective glasses, and the second without the leaded face shield and with protective glasses. The Dose Reduction Factors (DRFs) for the different superficial head areas, calculated as the ratio of Hp(0.07) with and without the leaded face shield, depended on the measurement point as expected and ranged between 0.32 and 0.57, where the lower value was for the frontal lobe. Regarding dose reduction measured around the eye orbit, a DRF of 0.10 and 0.35 was achieved for the right and left sides, respectively, indicating a significant level of protection of the ocular area.