2018 ACC/HRS/NASCI/SCAI/SCCT Expert Consensus Document on Optimal Use of Ionizing Radiation in Cardiovascular Imaging: Best Practices for Safety and Effectiveness
John W. HirshfeldVictor A. FerrariFrank M. BengelLisa BergersenCharles E. ChambersAndrew J. EinsteinMark J. EisenbergMark A. FogelThomas C. GerberDavid E. HainesWarren K. LaskeyMarian C. LimacherKenneth J. NicholsDaniel A. PrymaGilbert RaffGeoffrey D. RubinDonnette SmithArthur E. StillmanSuma A. ThomasThomas T. TsaiLouis K. WagnerL. Samüel Wann
Key Points
- This document aims to establish consensus guidelines for the optimal use of ionizing radiation in cardiovascular imaging to enhance patient safety and improve effectiveness.
- Developed through expert consensus from leading organizations in cardiovascular care and imaging.
- Reviewed existing literature and practices related to ionizing radiation in cardiovascular imaging.
- Provided recommendations for minimizing radiation exposure while maximizing diagnostic benefits.
- Outlined best practices and guidelines for the safe use of ionizing radiation in various imaging modalities.
- Emphasized the importance of training and education for healthcare professionals involved in imaging procedures.
Design
Expert consensus document
Key expert perspectives
Captured external expert commentary on this paper, strongest first. Original sources are linked where available.
“This document was developed to be an accessible information source for cardiovascular practitioners, to give them a way to sit down and spend an evening reading and coming away knowing a lot more about radiation exposure and about the various [imaging] tests that they employ.”
“I think that the levels of understanding and awareness are heterogeneous. There are some physicians who know this knowledge base and apply it well; others are less well informed. Awareness of the dangers of radiation exposure are similarly heterogeneous among cath lab nursing and technical staff—most do not hold a detailed knowledge base and take it on faith that their work environment and practices are safe.”
“They give many good tips and tricks.”
Implication
Offers immediate clinical guidance on radiation minimization in CV imaging; extends prior consensus with emphasis on training and optimization.
Abstract
No abstract was published with this document — society guidelines, consensus pathways, and scientific statements are typically released without one. See the Key Points and the linked PDF for the full content.
Discussion
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Cite This Study
Hirshfeld et al. (2018) studied this question. Multi-society expert consensus guidelines establish best practices for the optimal, safe, and effective use of ionizing radiation in cardiovascular imaging.