Reasons for Protective Vests and Machines When You’re Getting X-Rays

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In clinical areas where x-ray machines are used, there is usually some type of hazard sign to show that this is an increased risk area for radiation exposure. Machines that are used for x-ray are set to put off the minimal amount of radiation needed to capture the image, but it can also scatter in the room and reach out to parts of the body that do not need to be exposed to radiation.

The best possible blockage to radiation of this sort is lead. Now days, there are garments that are specially made for medical personnel and used frequently on patients. These are lead aprons, thyroid shields and lap protectors. Lead is high density, so it is impenetrable by radiation. It also does not absorb radiation, which makes it even more attractive to be used for these types of shielding. There are also lead screens or lead walls that can be stationary or mobile, depending on the location of the machine and what type of procedure is being done. In most operating rooms, there is a plethora of different aprons, thyroid shields, goggles, and mobile lead screens that can be moved, if needed.

X-Ray Protection

There are many conditions that can arise in individuals who are over exposed to x-ray types of radiation. There have been clinical studies of women in the nursing profession having overactive thyroid and eventually suffering different diseases like thyroid cancers of different sorts. Some of the symptoms of excessive radiation to the thyroid include menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, flushing, tremors, distorted vision, and increased body temperature. Some patients even complain of depression and anxiety.

The reproductive organs are sensitive as well to x-ray exposure. Radiation changes DNA configuration, which is a good thing if you are using it to treat cancer or other radical diseases. But, when ovaries and testicles of humans are over exposed, it can render a serious outcome for the offspring.

Contrary to popular belief, your brain is actually one of the most radiation-resistant organs in your body. This is because radiation-induced cancer is most susceptible in organs that undergo frequent cell division.

X-Ray Protection During Procedures

While performing procedures that require x-ray, physicians will wear lead aprons to protect themselves for radiation. One of the worst types of exposure is called fluoroscopy. This is very dangerous because the method of x-ray is a constant blast of energy in order to take a video of sorts during surgery or other type of interventional procedure.

A still shot x-ray is a short blast, less than a second. Fluoroscopy is used during gallbladder surgery when the surgeon shoots contrast into the common bile duct to make sure there are no stones harbored in the duct that can cause a major blockage of the biliary tree post-operatively. Fluoro is also used when fractured bones need to be visualized for proper alignment’s sake. Orthopedic surgeons drive pins into bones with a power driver, all the while watching the action of the instruments on a television screen for accuracy.

Surgeons will also wear lead gloves to protect their hands when working. Another area where lead aprons are used is the cardiac cath lab. These patients receive contrast into their vessels in order to diagnose heart problems and they can be lengthy procedures. Other area where a patient may be exposed to x-ray is in the dentist office. Always be sure to ask for coverage when in these situations.