Real-time measurement of radiation exposure in interventional radiologists during CT-guided intrathecal injections of nusinersen

Abstract

Purpose: Some patients with spinal muscular atrophy and scoliosis require CT guidance during injections of nusinersen. The radiation applied to the operator in such procedures becomes an important issue in terms of staff health and safety. The aim of the study was to assess the operator's radiation exposure during CT-guided nusinersen injections in patients with spinal muscular atrophy and scoliosis.

Methods: Consecutive 40 CT-guided nusinersen injections were analyzed in terms of operator's radiation exposure measured in real time.

Results: The median radiation dose measured under the physician's lead apron and patient dose in terms of DLP was 0.20 µSv and 31.90 mGy*cm respectively. The radiation doses were significantly higher (p = 0.047) in patients with spinal instrumentation.

Conclusion: The results show that CT-guided nusinersen injection is a relatively safe procedure in terms of operator's radiation exposure. This can allow for interventional radiologists to perform more procedures without exceeding their annual dose limit.

Keywords: CT-guided spinal injection; Nusinersen; Radiation exposure; Spinal muscular atrophy.