Shopping can be challenging when you’re investing in new supplies for your department or practice, especially considering the wide range of lead free radiation shielding products there are to choose from.

Xenolite offers multiple categories of radiation protection, including aprons, vest and skirt combinations, eyewear and other accessories – and decided to make the selection process easier by specifying some popular modalities and the gear that people seem to find most useful.

Here is a sample of industries that purchase lead free radiation protection and their preferred Lite Tech products:

1. Interventional Cardiology

   Cardiologists, especially those who work in a cardiac catheterization lab, require radiation protection for procedures such as coronary angioplasty, where radiation exposure levels are typically very high.

   Department managers typically order the following items for technologists, nurses and heart doctors to ensure the safest environment:

   • Vest/Skirt Apron
     The Vest/Skirt Apron is a popular pick for cardiologists and medical support staff.  This style allows for proper weight distribution between the shoulders and hips, which minimizes strain on the back. Shoulder pads and pockets are added features that allow for maximum comfort and convenience.
   • Radiation Protective Eyewear
     The eyes are one of the most sensitive areas of the body and cataracts are a major concern for clinicians performing fluoroscopic procedures. Lite Tech’s full line of radiation protective eyewear is popular choice for interventionalists, allowing for maximum comfort and protection.  The Ultralite Liberty Frames are the ideal combination of lightweight nylon and shielding protection and are available in multiple colors.

2. Endoscopy

   Gastroenterologists (GI), nurses and techs who work in an endoscopy lab regularly perform procedures that subject all participants to radiation. One example of such a procedure is endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP), which can have exposure levels of 2 to 6 mSv per procedure.

   • Vest/Skirt Apron
     The Vest/Skirt Apron remain the most popular solution offering back protection and ease of movement.
   • Adjustable Weight Apron
     The Adjustable Weight front panel apron remains a popular choice for GI staff who do not require back protection. The crisscross shoulder design keeps the apron in place when bending or stooping and the Velcro tabs make it easy to put on and take off.

3. Operating Room

   Fluoroscopic imaging performed in the operating room (O.R.), especially with orthopedic cases of arthroplasty, spinal surgery, and fracture repair. When diagnostic imaging is being performed in the O.R., all members of the operating team should be outfitted in the appropriate radiation shielding wear. Some styles that are fitting for the O.R. include:

   • O.R. Quick Drop Apron
     The name gives itself away, but the O.R. Quick Drop Apron is perfect for O.R. doctors, nurses and staff. Due to the potentially urgent nature of operations, frontal aprons (such as the Quick Drop) provide more flexibility than a full wrap style.  The physician can easily “drop” the apron without breaking the sterile barrier, allowing for more comfort during the non-imaging portion of the procedure.
   • Elastic Back Support Belt
     Operations can be range from several minutes to several hours. If you’re a nurse, doctor or tech working in practice areas such as orthopedics or neurology and suffer from back issues, the elastic back support belt may be a necessary addition to your radiation protective gear.

For more information about product offerings from Lite Tech, including Xenolite lead free radiation protection, click here to download the Product Catalog.