Type of publication:
Conference abstract
Author(s):
Lefroy R.; Johnson A.; McCrea J.; *Dunk S.; *Elves A.
Citation:
British Journal of Surgery; Jun 2020; vol. 107 ; p. 226-227
Abstract:
Aim: Renal tract stones are more common in overweight individuals as part of metabolic syndrome. Modern fluoroscopic devices used during ureteroscopy adjust exposure, providing high imaging quality. Consequently, total radiation doses in this group is increased compared to patients with lower BMIs. Patients with obesity and stone disease will potentially be exposed to more radiation, increasing the risk of developing malignancy. We assessed the radiation doses that our stone population received during fluoroscopic ureteroscopic procedures and how this varied with BMI.
Method(s): 62 consecutive patients undergoing fluoroscopic ureteroscopic laser procedures were identified between March and August 2018, ten of these were uretorenoscopies and were therefore excluded from analysis. Radiation exposure was corrected for dose/unit time and BMI was defined by criteria set by NHS Choices.
Result(s): There was significant association between BMI and radiation exposure as measured does/unit time. The exposure for those with the highest BMI was up to four times that of the lowest BMI.
Conclusion(s): Fluoroscopy in patients with high BMI should seek to limit radiation exposure. This could be achieved by use of snap imaging and ureteroscopy under direct vision where appropriate. Consideration of radiation exposure should be given within the consent process especially when compared to alternative therapies.
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