Reduction of radiation exposure to the cardiologist during coronary angiography by the use of a remotely controlled mechanical pump for injection of contrast medium.

Selective coronary cineangiography was carried out in 103 consecutive patients. In half the examinations (53) injection of contrast medium was performed by hand using a syringe, with the cardiologist standing in the usual position next to the X-ray table. In the other half (50) contrast medium was injected by a remotely controlled mechanical pump whilst the cardiologist stood well away from the X-ray source. Radiation dose to the lens of the cardiologists eye was estimated for the two groups by measurement of head badge dosimetry. In the first group (hand injection) total radiation dose was 1.30 mSv; in the second group (mechanical injection) it was reduced five-fold, to 0.25 mSv. This technique therefore represents an important means of achieving substantial reductions in radiation exposure to cardiologists.