Radiation Exposure to Anesthetists During Interventional Radiology Procedures: A Systematic Review of Occupational Safety

Abstract

Background:
Anesthetists working in interventional radiology (IR) suites are positioned close to the patient, placing them at a unique risk of high scatter radiation exposure that is often underestimated compared to that of the primary operator. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the available evidence on the magnitude of radiation exposure to anesthetists during IR procedures and evaluate the effectiveness of occupational safety measures.
Methods:
A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Embase was conducted to identify original studies that quantified ionizing radiation doses received by anesthetists during image-guided IR procedures. Following the PRISMA guidelines, two independent reviewers performed study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. Due to significant heterogeneity in procedures and dosimetry methods, a structured narrative synthesis was performed instead of a meta-analysis.
Results:
Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. The review found that anesthetists' radiation exposure can be significant, with one study reporting head and neck doses up to 3.2 times higher than those of the primary neurointerventionalist. Mean effective doses varied widely by procedure. Exposure to unshielded areas, particularly the eye lens, was a major concern, with procedural doses that could contribute substantially to approaching annual limits.
Conclusions:
Anesthetists face a significant and procedure-dependent occupational radiation risk, which necessitates targeted safety protocols. Routine use of personal dosimeters, mandatory role-specific radiation safety training, and consistent use of personal protective equipment.