Radiation dose and duration in coronary angiography: Driving inflammation in acute coronary syndrome patients?


Ozmen M., Ardahanlı İ.

ANNALS OF CLINICAL AND ANALYTICAL MEDICINE, vol.16, no.Suppl_03, pp.142-147, 2025 (ESCI)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 16 Issue: Suppl_03
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.4328/acam.22865
  • Journal Name: ANNALS OF CLINICAL AND ANALYTICAL MEDICINE
  • Journal Indexes: Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI)
  • Page Numbers: pp.142-147
  • Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Aim: Coronary angiography, a vital diagnostic and therapeutic procedure for patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), involves radiation exposure.This radiation exposure has the potential to trigger an inflammatory response, which may negatively impact clinical outcomes. This study investigated therelationship between radiation exposure, as measured by cumulative air kerma (CAK) and duration, and inflammatory markers during coronary angiography.

Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 230 patients who underwent coronary angiography for suspected ACS. Demographic characteristics,medical history, and angiographic findings were recorded. C-reactive protein (CRP) and white blood cell (WBC) levels were measured before and after theprocedure. Radiation exposure was recorded as CAK and duration using the fluoroscopy system.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 63.82 ± 12.64 years, and 70.6% were male. A statistically significant positive correlation was found betweenradiation dose (CAK) and duration, and post-procedure CRP and WBC levels (p<0.05). For instance, patients with higher CAK values had significantly increasedpost-procedure CRP and WBC levels.

Discussion: Radiation exposure during coronary angiography can trigger an inflammatory response, potentially leading to prolonged hospital stays and anincreased risk of infection. Therefore, it is crucial to minimize radiation exposure, particularly in high-risk patients (e.g., elderly, diabetic). This can be achievedthrough careful pre-procedural planning, implementation of radiation reduction protocols, and the use of experienced operators. Future studies shouldinvestigate protective strategies to mitigate the impact of radiation on the inflammatory response.