In this episode Drs. Poonam Velagapudi, Saraschandra Vallabhajosyula, and James Hermiller explore the critical topic of occupational safety in the cath lab. While healthcare providers focus on treating patients, their work environment can put their own health at risk—particularly long-term impact of wearing heavy lead protection. Drawing from discussions at the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) 2025 Think Tank Sessions, the episode highlights data on lead-free and reduced-lead solutions aimed at preventing back pain and injury among cardiac catheterization operators. Tune in for a timely conversation on protecting the well-being of the heart team.

Related References

Strepkos D, Rempakos A, Alexandrou M, et al. How to Improve Radiation Protection in Interventional Cardiology Procedures. Circ Cardiovasc Interv. 2025;18(4):e014808. doi:10.1161/CIRCINTERVENTIONS.124.014808

Women in Innovations (WIN) Radiation Safety (SCAI website). 2025. Available at: https://scai.org/membership/career-development/women-innovations-win/win-radiation-safety . Accessed 06/17/25.

SCAI Highlights Cath Lab Radiation and Orthopaedic Hazards (Cardiovascular News website). Available at: https://cardiovascularnews.com/scai-highlights-cath-lab-radiation-and-orthopaedic-hazards/. Accessed 06/17/25.

Occupational Health Hazards in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory (SCAI website). 2025. Available at: https://scai.org/occupational-health-hazards-cardiac-catheterization-laboratory . Accessed 06/17/25.

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SCAI 2025 Think Tank Session Highlights: Radiation Protection and Team Well-Being