Digestive Endoscopy Suite Radiation Controlling Protective Strategies

A Prospective Double-blind, Randomized, Sham-controlled Trial to Evaluate the Effect of a Lead Free Drape on Scatter Radiation Exposure to Endoscopy Staff During Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

ERCP is associated with radiation exposure to the endoscopist and staff, which may be significant at high volume programs despite the use of lead aprons. We hypothesize that draping of the fluoroscopy image intensifier may significantly reduce staff radiation exposure and help achieve implementation of the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle.

A total of 100 consecutive ERCP procedures were randomly assigned to the radiation-attenuating or sham drape in a 1:1 ratio. There were 2 subjects, the endoscopists performing ERCP and the nurse assisting in the procedure.

Inclusion Criteria:

• All the ERCP procedures done by the same endoscopist and nurse are enrolled
• Patients age >19

Exclusion Criteria:

• Fluoroscopic procedures other than ERCP were excluded.