Lightweight Aprons EXPOSED - Views from an Interventional Suite

There was a Twitter discussion recently that started out innocently enough - an Interventional Cardiologist fellow asking a general question about where he should look for the lightweight “lead” solutions. This social media conversation was likely similar to the “water cooler” conversations in many cath labs at the end of a long day. The good news is that early in his career, this IC fellow was aware of and looking for solutions to the orthopedic risks that are so prevalent among IC’s and the teams they work with. This awareness is significant since roughly 60% of IC’s that have been in the cath lab for 21 years or more report significant spine issues as a result of the heavy lead aprons (this does not include hips, knees, feet, etc…). The first thought was good for him… He is aware of THE MOST commonly occurring risk / injury for an IC.

As the conversation progressed, it became obvious that many that work in the cath lab are not aware of the risks of lightweight lead. Who can blame them? At the end of a long day of wearing heavy lead, the effects are immediate - fatigue, aching muscles, sore joints, etc… The cumulative effects of heavy lead aprons can be devastating… The risks of ineffective radiation protection are not as immediate, but the cumulative effect of THIS risk can be CATASTROPHIC.

As the topic of cath lab safety begins to get the attention that it deserves, it is important that safety is defined completely. In the case of radiation protection in the cath lab, safety is beginning to be defined as both protection from radiation and protection, and from orthopedic strain and fatigue. The inclusion of BOTH elements in the discussion is significant! As research begins to emerge on the level of protection that lightweight lead provides, there is information that those purchasing this type of protection should be aware of. Below is the link to an article every cath lab team member should read:

Lightweight Aprons Exposed - Views from an Interventional Suite

As solutions to address total safety in the cath lab begin to emerge, the teams that work in the lab should educate themselves on what is available, decide on the best solutions for their situation, and find a way to communicate the those needs. Do not miss the opportunity to research the available options. And equally as important, do NOT miss the opportunity to educate those know that make the purchase decisions for safety in your lab.