Using 7.5 frames per second reduces radiation exposure in lower extremity peripheral vascular interventions

Background Peripheral vascular interventions can be associated with significant radiation exposure to the patient and the operator. Objective In this study, we sought to compare the radiation dose between peripheral vascular interventions using fluoroscopy frame rate of 7.5 frames per second (fps) and those performed at the standard 15 fps and procedural outcomes. Methods We retrospectively collected data from consecutive 87 peripheral vascular interventions performed during 2011 and 2012 from two medical centers. The patients were divided into two groups based on fluoroscopy frame rate; 7.5 fps (group A, n=44) and 15 fps (group B, n=43). We compared the demographic, clinical, procedural characteristics/outcomes, and radiation dose between the two groups. Radiation dose was measured as dose area product in micro Gray per meter square. Results Median dose area product was significantly lower in group A (3358, interquartile range (IQR) 2052-7394) when compared to group B (8812, IQR 4944-17,370), p<0.001 with no change in median fluoroscopy time in minutes (18.7, IQR 11.1-31.5 vs. 15.7, IQR 10.1-24.1), p=0.156 or success rate (93.2% vs. 95.3%), p>0.999. Conclusion Using fluoroscopy at the rate of 7.5 fps during peripheral vascular interventions is associated with lower radiation dose compared to the standard 15 fps with comparable success rate without associated increase in the fluoroscopy time or the amount of the contrast used. Therefore, using fluoroscopy at the rate of 7.5 fps should be considered in peripheral vascular interventions.