Radiation shielding system

Abstract

To provide a radiation shield assembly.SOLUTION: A radiation shield assembly configured to block radiation emanating from a radiation source comprises a support arm constructed to support at least the majority of the weight of the shield assembly, a first generally planar vertical shield, and a second generally planar vertical shield. The first generally planar vertical shield connects to the second generally planar vertical shield to form a radiopaque barrier. The first generally planar vertical shield and the second generally planar vertical shield can be positioned on a table. The radiation shield assembly is configured to be able to rotate at least one of the first generally planar vertical shield and the second generally planar vertical shield relative to the other around a generally vertical axis with each other and to protect a user's bust from radiation emanating from the radiation source.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to radiation protection devices, and more particularly to devices for protecting medical personnel from radiation hazards in an operating room.

Background Art

[0002] Recent advancements in electronics and robotics have enabled surgeons to replace many open incision techniques with non-invasive microsurgery techniques. When the operating room has a poor view of the surgical intervention site, the site must be continuously visualized in order to properly guide and control the instruments. This can be achieved through radiation monitoring, the most common example of which is X-ray monitoring. During surgery, an X-ray generator is placed on one side of the patient to emit X-rays at the surgical site (this is generally below the patient, although the position of the X-ray generator can vary as needed). After the emitted X-rays pass through the surgical site, an X-ray intensifier is placed to transmit the image data to a monitor or other means that receives the emitted X-rays and presents a visible image to the surgeon.

[0003] These microsurgery techniques represent a significant advancement over previous open body techniques in terms of the psychological trauma, recovery time, and risk of infection to the patient. However, constant radiation monitoring exposes everyone involved to more radiation than was required with older technologies. This is a minor issue for patients who are likely to experience such surgeries only a few times in their lives. However, the professional medical staff performing these surgeries are exposed much more frequently, and the cumulative exposure can easily exceed the safety limit if the staff do not take some form of protection.

[0004] Previous attempts to solve these problems have significant limitations. By placing heavy shielding materials around the patient, it is possible to prevent radiation from reaching the medical staff. However, since medical staff need to constantly access the patient's body, complete shielding is not practical, and because the human body is transparent to X-rays ("radiolucent"), X-rays can pass through the patient's body and expose the medical staff. Any surgical procedure poses the risk of life-threatening complications that require medical staff to directly access the patient's body. Heavy shielding around the patient's body is bulky and difficult to move, which can impede emergency access by medical staff to patients in such situations.

[0005] Another attempt to protect medical staff during such surgeries involved wearing shielding materials, or basically radiation "protective gear". These took the form of lead vests, lead skirts, lead thyroid collars, leaded acrylic face shields, leaded acrylic glasses, and "zero-gravity" leaded suits. Radiation protective gear has significant drawbacks and must have a considerable weight to block X-rays (generally containing lead, a very high-density metal), making it heavy to wear. Wearing heavy radiation protective gear fatigues even physically fit wearers and can cause orthopedic diseases with habitual use. Protecting medical staff from X-rays using radiation protective gear only replaces one health hazard with another.

[0006] Self-made glasses and face shields can be of manageable weight, but they only protect a small part of the body on their own.

[0007] The "zero-gravity" suit is a lead-containing body suit suspended by a rigid metal frame. The frame is installed on some support structure such as the floor or ceiling. As a result, the wearer does not support the suit with their own body. This type of suspended protective gear has further drawbacks. This protective gear exposes and leaves unprotected the wearer's hands and forearms, allowing the wearer to engage in fine manual work. This restricts the movement of the wearer's body to movements that can fit the frame and often prevents the wearer from bending over or sitting down. These protective gears use static face shields that prevent the wearer from bringing anything close to their face, for example, for visual inspection. Due to their complexity and material costs, suspended protective gear systems are extremely expensive, currently costing approximately $70,000 per unit.

[0008] Another form of radiation protection is the mobile "cabin", a radiation-impermeable box where the user stands inside. The user can push the cabin to various locations while inside. The cabin has arm ports at a specific height and viewing portions at a specific height. As a result, the user cannot reposition or reorient their hands and face very much, for example, to stand up or lean out. These protective gears also use static face shields that prevent the wearer from bringing anything close to their face, for example, for visual inspection.

[0009] Therefore, there is a need in the art for means to shield medical staff from X-rays that must expose the patient, enabling access to the patient's body without interfering with the user's body and being quickly reconfigurable as needed.

Prior Art Documents

Non-Patent Documents

[0010]

Non-Patent Document 1

[0011] The present disclosure describes a radiation shielding assembly that addresses the above-described problems by interposing a barrier between the surgical area and the area encompassing medical personnel. In cooperation with a shielding curtain suspended below the operating table, the shielding assembly significantly reduces the radiation reaching the personnel directly from the radiation generator and indirectly from the radiation-transmissive body of the patient, enables access to the patient's body, allows complete freedom of movement for some of the users, and can be easily reconfigured as needed. The shielding assembly generally includes two shielding structures supported by a support member such as a mast or a suspension arm. Each shielding structure has at least one generally vertical shield, and the two vertical shields can be rotated relative to each other about the longitudinal axis of the support member and can be translated relative to each other about the longitudinal axis of the support member.

[0012] In a first aspect, there is provided a radiation shielding assembly configured to block radiation emitted from a radiation source. In the first aspect, the assembly includes support means for supporting the assembly, and first shielding means, in a first generally vertical plane, for blocking radiation from the radiation source, the first shielding means being fixed to the support means and having a limb opening dimensioned to allow a human limb to pass through the first shielding means; and second shielding means, in a second generally vertical plane, for blocking radiation from the radiation source, the second shielding means being fixed to the support means such that the second shielding means is translatable and rotatable relative to the first shielding means along a generally vertical axis.

[0013] A second aspect of the radiation shielding assembly is provided, the second aspect including a support arm having a longitudinal axis configured to support at least a majority of the weight of the shielding assembly, a first generally flat and vertical shield fixed to the support arm and having an opening near a lower end dimensioned to pass a human limb, and a second generally flat and vertical shield translatably and rotatably connected to the support arm such that the second shield rotates about an axis generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support arm and translates along the axis, the first vertical shield, the first horizontal shield, the second vertical shield, the second horizontal shield, and the lower vertical shield all being radiation impermeable.

[0014] In a third aspect, there is provided a system for shielding a user from a lower-mounted X-ray generator while the user is treating a patient lying horizontally positioned above the X-ray generator. The system includes a table configured to support a patient, having a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis; an X-ray generator disposed below the table; an image intensifier disposed above the table to receive X-rays projected from the X-ray generator; a radiation-impermeable curtain shield extending downward from the table at at least a first side portion of the table; a radiation shield assembly including a support arm configured to support the weight of the shield assembly and having a generally vertical longitudinal axis; a first shield assembly fixed to the support arm and disposed adjacent to the first side portion of the table and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the table, the first shield assembly including a first generally flat and vertical shield; and an opening in the first vertical shield, the opening being disposed above the table to allow the patient's arm to pass through the opening. The system further includes a second shield assembly fixed to the support arm such that the second shield assembly is rotatable and translatable about an axis generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support arm, the second shield assembly including a second generally flat and vertical shield disposed above the table. The second vertical shield is rotatable about an axis of the second vertical shield that is generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the table or generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the table.

[0015] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a radiation shield assembly configured to block radiation emitted from a radiation source. The assembly includes a support arm having a longitudinal axis and configured to support at least a majority of the weight of the shield assembly; a first generally flat and vertical shield fixed to the support arm via a first radiation-impermeable joint; and a second generally flat and vertical shield translatably and rotatably connected to the support arm via a second radiation-impermeable joint such that the second shield rotates about an axis generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support arm and translates along the axis.

[0016] In a fifth aspect, there is provided a radiography method including disposing any one of the above-described radiation shielding assemblies between a patient and a user such that a limb of the patient extends through a limb opening in the shielding assembly, inserting a medical device into a blood vessel system of the limb, and irradiating the patient with radiation using a radiation generator arranged such that radiation passes at least partially through the patient while being blocked from reaching the user by the shielding assembly.

[0017] The foregoing presents a simplified summary in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview. The summary is not intended to identify key or essential elements of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as an introduction to a more detailed description that is presented later.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0018]

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Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] A. Definitions Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used in this specification shall have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries shall be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification, and it will be further understood that they should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly so defined herein. For the sake of brevity or clarity, well-known functions or configurations may not be described.

[0020] The terms “about” and “substantially” shall generally mean an acceptable degree of error or variation of the measured quantity, taking into account the nature or accuracy of the measurement. A typical, exemplary degree of error or variation is within 20 percent (%) of a given value or range of values, preferably within 10%, more preferably within 5%. For example, the terms “substantially parallel” or “substantially vertical” refer to an angle within an acceptable degree of error or variation from true parallel or vertical, such as within a range of 45, 25, 20, 15, 10, or 1° from true parallel or vertical. Numerical quantities given in this description are approximate unless otherwise stated, meaning that the terms “about” or “substantially” may be presumed where not explicitly stated. Numerical quantities claimed in the patent are exact unless otherwise stated.

[0021] When a feature or element is said to be "on" another feature or element, it will be understood that the feature or element can be directly on the other feature or element or there may be intervening features and / or elements. In contrast, when a feature or element is referred to as being "directly on" another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements. When a feature or element is said to be "connected", "attached", "fixed", or "coupled" to another feature or element, it will be understood that the feature or element can be directly connected, attached, fixed, or coupled to the other feature or element or there may be intervening features or elements. In contrast, when a feature or element is said to be "directly connected", "directly attached", "directly fixed", or "directly coupled" to another feature or element, there are no intervening features or elements. Features or elements so described or illustrated are described or illustrated with respect to one embodiment but may apply to other embodiments.

[0022] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well (i.e., at least one of any of the things the article modifies) unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0023] For ease of description of the relationship of one element or feature to another when the device is in its normal orientation as shown in the accompanying drawings, terms indicating spatial relationships such as "under", "below", "lower", "on", "upper", etc. may be used herein.

[0024] Terms such as "at least one of A and B" are to be interpreted as meaning "only A, only B, or both A and B". The same syntax shall apply to longer enumerations (e.g., "at least one of A, B, and C"). In contrast, terms such as "at least one A and at least one B" are to be interpreted as requiring both A and B.

[0025] In this specification, terms such as "first", "second", "third", etc. are used to describe various features or elements, but these features or elements shall not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one feature or element from another. Therefore, the first feature or element described below can be referred to as the second feature or element, and similarly, the second feature or element described below can be referred to as the first feature or element without departing from the teachings of this disclosure.

[0026] The term "consisting essentially of" means that what is claimed may include, in addition to the recited elements, other elements (steps, structures, components, compositions, etc.) that do not adversely affect the functionality of what is claimed for its intended purpose as recited in this disclosure. This term excludes other elements that would adversely affect the functionality of what is claimed for its intended purpose as recited in this disclosure, even if such other elements may improve the functionality of what is claimed for some other purpose.

[0027] It is obvious that a given element of the disclosed embodiments of the present invention may be embodied in a single structure, a single step, a single substance, etc. Similarly, a given element of the disclosed embodiments may be embodied in a plurality of structures, steps, substances, etc.

[0028] B. Radiation Shielding Assembly A radiation shield assembly 100 is provided, which is configured to block radiation emitted from a radiation source and is supported by support means 145 that supports the assembly 100. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, a first shielding means 105 is disposed within a first generally vertical plane. The first shielding means 105 is fixed to the support means 145 and has a limb opening 110 dimensioned to allow a human limb to pass through the first shielding means 105. This provides access to the patient's arm (or alternatively the leg or torso) for the introduction of a medical device (such as an arthroscopic instrument) through the patient's vascular system.

[0029] A second shielding means 115 is disposed within a second generally vertical plane, and the second shielding means 115 is fixed to the support means 145 such that the second shielding means 115 can translate and rotate relative to the first shielding means 105 along a generally vertical axis. The second shielding means 115 can therefore be raised, lowered, or swung relative to the first shielding means 105 as necessary to ensure access to the patient (see comparison of FIGS. 1 to 3).

[0030] To protect medical staff from radiation passing through the limb 110, a third shielding means 120 can be arranged to block radiation from the limb opening 110 in a first generally horizontal plane that is substantially orthogonal to the first vertical plane. The third shielding means 120 can be fixed to the first shielding means 105 such that the third shielding means 120 translates and rotates with the first shielding means 105. That is, the first shielding means 105 and the third shielding means 120 can be stationary relative to each other in at least one configuration of the assembly 100 (however, in some embodiments, the first shielding means 105 and the third shielding means 120 can be movable relative to the support arm 150 or other parts of the assembly 100 with at least one degree of freedom). Additional (or alternative) protection in the form of a flexible radiation-impermeable member can be provided at the lowermost part of the first shielding means 105. In an alternative embodiment of the shielding assembly 100, a flexible radiation-impermeable member 220 is used instead of the third shielding means 120 to block radiation emitted through the limb opening 110. Examples of such flexible radiation-impermeable members 220 include one or more leaves of a shroud, sleeve, curtain, and iris port. They can be constructed from any suitable flexible and radiation-impermeable material.

[0031] In a second generally horizontal plane, a fourth shielding means 125 can be arranged. The second horizontal plane is substantially orthogonal to the second vertical plane. The fourth shielding means 125 is fixed to the second shielding means 115, for example, along the support means 145, such that the fourth shielding means 125 translates and rotates with the second shielding means 115. Additional protection in the form of a flexible radiation-impermeable shroud can be provided at the lowermost part of the fourth shielding means 125. In an alternative embodiment of the shielding assembly 100, a flexible radiation-impermeable shroud is used instead of the fourth shielding means 120.

[0032] There may be a fifth shielding means 135 disposed within a third substantially vertical plane that is substantially orthogonal to the second substantially vertical plane and to the second substantially horizontal plane, and the fifth shielding means 135 may be connected to the second shielding means 115 such that the fifth shielding means 135 translates and rotates with the second shielding means 115 and extends downward.

[0033] Some embodiments of the shielding assembly 100 include a sixth shielding means 140 disposed within a fourth substantially vertical plane, and the sixth shielding means 140 is connected to the first shielding means 105 such that the sixth shielding means 140 extends downward. The fourth substantially vertical plane may be substantially parallel to the first vertical plane. The sixth shielding means 140 may be arranged to protect the lower body of the user from radiation. The sixth shielding means 140 may take any of a number of suitable forms, including one or more of a generally flat shield, a flexible drape, and an extension of the first shielding means 105.

[0034] The first shielding means 105 and the second shielding means 115 can be configured to swing around a common axis such as a hinge (compare FIGS. 1 and 2). This axis may be, for example, the longitudinal axis of the support means 145. In other embodiments, the first shielding means 105 and the second shielding means 115 may each swing around each of two separate axes, which are substantially parallel to each other. In some embodiments, both of these axes may be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support means 145. By analogy, the first shielding means 105 and the second shielding means 115 are enabled to swing relative to each other, like the front and back covers of a book. In some embodiments, the first shielding means 105 and the second shielding means 115 may be in a relative position of about 180° from each other such that when viewed from above, the first shielding means 105 and the second shielding means 115 are substantially parallel and / or in a straight line. Such an "open" configuration is useful for forming a barrier along the full length of a patient lying on their side. In some embodiments, the first shielding means 105 and the second shielding means 115 may be in a relative position of about 0° or approaching 0° from each other, in which case the first shielding means 105 and the second shielding means 115 may be in contact with each other or very close and substantially parallel. In some embodiments, the first shielding means 105 and the second shielding means 115 are configured to rotate relative to each other over an arc of at least about 90°. In some further embodiments, the first shielding means 105 and the second shielding means 115 are configured to rotate relative to each other over an arc of up to about 180°, and in a further particular embodiment, over an arc of about 0 to 180°.

[0035] The first shielding means 105 and the second shielding means 115 may also be configured to translate relative to each other or to translate in unison along the support means 145 (see FIGS. 1 and 2 for comparison). The shielding assembly 100 may include means 225 for translating at least one of the first shielding means 105 and the second shielding means 115 along the support means 145. By way of example, such translating means 225 may be a support mechanism, a counterweight mechanism, an electric motor, a hydraulic mechanism, a pneumatic mechanism, a manual mechanism, or any combination of the above.

[0036] The support means 145 may be configured to allow the entire shielding assembly 100 to translate relative to the operating table 305 within the operating room. For example, the support means 145 may be configured to allow manual translation of the entire shielding assembly 100 or to allow mechanical translation of the shielding assembly 100 by means of one or more actuators. Some embodiments of the support means 145 comprise a support arm 150. The support arm 150 is configured to support a majority (if not all) of the weight of the assembly 100. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the support arm 150 is an elongate steel structure having a longitudinal axis that is generally vertical when the shielding assembly 100 is in use. The support arm 150 may be constructed from any material having sufficient mechanical strength to support the assembly 100 and may be designed by one of ordinary skill in the art. Preferably, the support arm 150 is constructed from a material that is similarly impervious to radiation of the frequencies and intensities contemplated. For example, some embodiments of the support arm 150 are impervious to X-rays of the energies specific to radiography applications.

[0037] The support means 145 is supported by a ceiling, a floor, a wall, or another structure. In the case of a floor-mounted type (as in FIG. 4), the support means 145 can be suspended by various structures. The support means 145 may be integrally installed on the floor or, alternatively, may be supported by a movable or stationary stand.

[0038] Some embodiments of the support means 145 comprise a substantially vertical mast 155. The support means 145 is capable of supporting the shielding assembly 100 to some extent. For example, some embodiments of the support means 145 are capable of supporting the majority of the weight of the assembly 100. In further embodiments, the support means 145 is capable of supporting approximately the entire weight, or the entire weight, of the assembly 100. The mast 155 can be supported by various means. In some embodiments of the radiation shielding assembly 100, the mast 155 is supported by a floor stand 170. The floor stand 170 can further comprise a plurality of wheels 175 that enable easy deployment and removal of the assembly 100. In further embodiments of the system, the mast 155 is suspended by an overhead boom 160 (see FIGS. 5 and 7). The use of the overhead boom 160 can provide easy mobility even to a relatively heavy assembly 100, and enable the assembly 100 to be quickly and easily positioned and removed with respect to the patient. Various configurations using the boom 160 are conceivable. For example, the mast 155 can be configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the overhead boom 160, or to pivot with respect to the overhead boom 160. The mast 155 can be capable of translating along the longitudinal axis of the overhead boom 160. In further embodiments of the system, the overhead boom 160 is supported by a second mast 165. The second mast 165 can then be supported on a wheeled floor stand 170, installed on the ceiling, or installed on the wall. For example, the second mast 165 can be supported by a rail 180 installed on the wall, or a rail 185 installed on the ceiling (see FIGS. 6 and 8), and in such embodiments, the second mast 165 can be capable of translating along the rail 180 installed on the wall, or the rail 185 installed on the ceiling. As another example, the second mast 165 can be supported by a swing arm 190 installed on the wall, or a swing arm 195 installed on the ceiling (see FIGS. 5 and 7).In a further embodiment, the second mast 165 may be supported by a swing arm, which is then supported by a rail 180 installed on a wall or a rail 185 installed on a ceiling, and the swing arm is capable of translating along the rail 180 installed on the wall or the rail 185 installed on the ceiling.

[0039] In some embodiments where there is a third horizontal shielding means 120, the first shielding means 105 and the third shielding means 120 are configured to translate vertically in tandem. For example, the first shielding means 105 and the third shielding means 120 may be configured to translate in tandem along the support means 145. The degree of translation may be configured to optimize shielding of the user from X-rays while the user is standing or sitting. For example, the first shielding means 105 may be configured to translate along such that, in a first position, the uppermost end of the first shielding means 105 is at least about the height of an adult human above the floor. Considering normal human dimensions, such a height may be 175 cm, 180 cm, 185 cm, 190 cm, 195 cm, or 200 cm above the floor.

[0040] Similarly, the first shielding means 105 itself is dimensioned to provide appropriate radiation protection when in the proper position during use. For example, the first shielding means 105 may have a height greater than or equal to the distance from the upper surface of the operating table 305 to about the full body length of an average human. In various embodiments, the first shielding means 105 has a height greater than or equal to the distance from the upper surface of the operating table 305 to a height of 175 cm, 180 cm, 185 cm, 190 cm, 195 cm, or 200 cm above the floor when the operating table 305 is on the floor. While a greater height has the advantage of a larger X-ray shielding area, a smaller height has the advantage of reduced weight and cost.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the first shielding means 105 is arranged approximately parallel to the long axis of the operating table 305 and is positioned to protect the user's upper body from X-rays emitted from a point below the table 305. In the illustrated embodiment, the first shielding means 105 is a generally flat and vertical shield fixed to the support arm 150. Of course, the first shielding means 105 can perform its function even if it is not exactly vertical and can be designed to be tilted as necessary or desired to customize the shielding area. Some embodiments of the first vertical shield 105 are designed to extend above the user's head to prevent direct radiation from reaching the user's head. The first vertical shield 105 can be designed to extend above the head of a standing user or, depending on the situation, a seated user. The illustrated embodiment of the first vertical shield 105 has a sufficient length that extends from the patient's head to around the patient's waist. Such a configuration is particularly useful for visualizing the patient's chest during surgery where radiography is used. This length can be increased to provide a wider area of protection, but such an increase in length must be balanced with the additional weight of the configuration and the reduced flexibility that would accompany such a change.

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, in the first shielding means 105, an opening 110 is shown that allows the patient's arm to extend from the shielding area. The opening 110 may optionally include a flexible shielding material such as a radiation-impermeable curtain, or a flexible flange 220. The illustrated opening 110 is semi-circular, but may have any shape that allows the patient's limb to extend through the shield. The opening 110 provides a path through which radiation leakage can occur. The third shielding means 120 is arranged to prevent radiation that irradiates through the opening 110 from irradiating the user. In the illustrated embodiment, the third shielding means 120 is a horizontal shield that is disposed to cover the opening 110 and is orthogonal to the first vertical shield 105. This particular configuration is useful for blocking radiation from the emission position that is below the opening 110 and on the side of the vertical shield opposite the location where the user is standing. The third shielding means 120 can be oriented differently to accommodate different emission positions relative to the opening 110.

[0043] In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 1-3, the second shielding means 115 is configured to rotate and translate relative to the first shielding means 105 to enable adjustment of the assembly 100 to the dimensions of the patient and to reconfigure the assembly 100 to provide a varying angle of access to the patient and protection from radiation. In the illustrated embodiment, the second substantially vertical shield 115 takes the form of a second substantially vertical shield 115 connected to a support arm 150 so as to be capable of rotating about the longitudinal axis of the arm and translating parallel to the same longitudinal axis. In FIG. 1, the second vertical shield 115 is shown in a position orthogonal to the first vertical shield 105. Such a configuration is useful for providing user access to the patient's legs when the second vertical shield 115 actually intersects the patient's body. It is also possible to lower the second vertical shield 115 to the base 305 to form a complete shield when the patient is positioned with the head closest to the second vertical shield 115. In FIG. 3, the second vertical shield 115 is shown generally parallel to the first vertical shield 105.

[0044] The fourth shielding means 125 functions to block radiation that can irradiate from below the second shielding means 115 when the second shielding means 115 is disposed above the table 305. In the accompanying drawings, the fourth shielding means 125 is shown as a horizontal shield having a notch 130. This trapezoidal notch 130 functions to provide access to the patient's groin during surgery and may be useful for providing access to the femoral vein for arthroscopic insertion. The notch 130 is a useful but optional feature of the second horizontal shield 125. In the illustrated embodiment, the second horizontal shield 125 is disposed to block radiation emitted from below the operating table 305, but this structure can be variously arranged to block radiation from other directions.

[0045] The fifth shielding means 135, when present, functions to prevent radiation from exposing the user's lower body when the user is located on the opposite side of the support arc 150 like a radiation source. Such a structure is generally not necessary below the first shielding means 150 because the operating table is usually equipped with a lead curtain suspended from the operating table for surgeries that require radiation monitoring. However, the curtain does not necessarily extend the full length of the table and does not necessarily extend along the width of the table.

[0046] Most of the surface area of the shielding means is impermeable to radiation of the frequencies and intensities that those shielding means are intended to block. Some embodiments of the shielding means may be entirely radiation-impermeable. Exemplary materials that are impermeable to X-rays include lead plates, lead filings, lead-containing acrylic glass, and polymer suspensions of lead particles. Lead has the advantages of a very high atomic number and stable nuclides, although other heavy metals such as barium may be used. As the thickness increases along the radiation vector, the radiation impermeability increases. In the design of the shielding means, it becomes troublesome to balance the achievement of appropriate radiation impermeability and the limitation of the weight of the device. For example, some embodiments of the lead shield are about 0.5 to 1.5 mm thick. Further embodiments of the lead shield are about 0.8 to 1.5 mm thick. Lower density materials such as lead-containing acrylics must be thicker to achieve the same level of radiation impermeability as lead. For example, some embodiments of the lead-containing acrylic shield are about 12 to 35 mm thick. Further embodiments of the lead-containing acrylic shield are about 18 to 22 mm thick. Lead barium type glass is another suitable material. For example, some embodiments of the lead barium type glass shield are about 7 to 17 mm thick. Further embodiments of the lead barium type glass shield are about 7, 9, 14, or 17 mm thick. Comparing these exemplary materials, lead has the advantage of better radiation impermeability per unit thickness, while lead-containing acrylic glass and lead barium type glass have the advantages of visible light transmissibility and X-ray impermeability. In some embodiments of the assembly 100, at least one of the first to fifth shielding means 105, 115, 120, 125, 135 is transparent to visible light. In such embodiments, the transparent shielding means may have a light transmittance equal to or exceeding one of 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 99%, and 100%.

[0047] Outside the context of any specific material, the radiation impermeability of the shielding means can be expressed as millimeters of lead equivalent. In various embodiments of the system, at least one of the first shielding means 105, the second shielding means 115, the third shielding means 120, the fourth shielding means 125, or the fifth shielding means 135 has a radiation impermeability of at least 0.5 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.5, 2, 3, or 3.3 mm of lead equivalent.

[0048] Any of the above-described shielding means can be joined to each other or joined to the support means 145 via a radiation-impermeable joint 205. Such a radiation-impermeable joint 205 minimizes the transmission of radiation from the generator through the joint 205. This can be achieved between the plates, for example, by joining plates having a sufficiently narrow gap such that a straight line cannot be traced from the radiation source through the gap when in the intended position on the operating table 305. Such a joint 205 can be constructed using, for example, a radiation-impermeable brace or lap joint. A radiation-impermeable joint 205 having a support arm 150 can be constructed using, for example, a radiation-impermeable sleeve around the support arm 150 fixed to the shielding means.

[0049] The radiation shielding assembly 100 is supported by a support arm 150 and is arranged to position a first shielding assembly and a second shielding assembly between a patient and a user. The first shielding assembly is fixed to the support arm 150 and includes a first generally vertical shield 105 and a first generally horizontal shield 120. The second shielding assembly is also fixed to the support arm 150 and is adapted to rotate and translate along the longitudinal axis of the support arm 150 relative to the first shielding assembly. The second shielding assembly includes a second generally flat and vertical shield 115 disposed above a table 305, a second generally horizontal shield 125 connected to the second vertical shield 115 and disposed above the table 305, and a lower generally flat and vertical shield 135 extending from the second horizontal shield 125 below the table 305. The second vertical shield 115 can be rotated about an axis of the second vertical shield 115 that is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the table 305 or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the table 305.

[0050] The shielding assembly may be part of a larger system that includes an operating table 305, an X-ray generator 310, and an image intensifier 315 (see FIGS. 10 and 11). The X-ray generator 310 is arranged to direct X-rays through the table 305 towards the image intensifier 315 on the other side, as is known in the art. The generator 310 and the image intensifier 315 can be commonly installed, for example, on a C-arm 320. The operating table 305 often has a radiation-impermeable curtain 325 suspended from at least one side of the table 305. The curtain 325 may also extend around two or more sides of the table 305. The curtain 325 is particularly useful when the system is configured to have the X-ray generator 310 below the table 305. The patient is generally positioned "lying down", which means lying on the table 305 in any suitable orientation, including the supine, prone, and lateral positions. Conventionally, the patient is positioned, for example, on the table 305 between the X-ray generator 310 and the image intensifier 315, which are typically installed on the C-arm 320. In the attached figures, the X-ray generator 310 is shown below the patient, which is a commonly used configuration but not the only configuration in which the system can be used. The table (such as the operating table 305) is capable of supporting the patient. Depending on the age and size of the patient, various configurations of the operating table 305 can be used. The image intensifier 315 is arranged to receive the X-rays projected from the X-ray generator 310 (such as being arranged above the table 305 when the X-ray generator 310 is below). Usually, the radiation-impermeable curtain shield 325 extends downward from the table 305 on the side where medical personnel will work ("the first side"). The first shielding means 105 can be arranged to contact the edge of the table along the longitudinal dimension of the first shielding means 105, or such that the lowermost edge of the first shielding means 105 is below the surface of the table 305 along the longitudinal dimension of the first shielding means 105. The second shielding means 115 can also be arranged parallel to the longitudinal dimension of the table 305 so as to form a barrier between the user and the lower limbs of the patient.In such a configuration, the second shielding means 115 is also arranged such that the lower edge of the second shielding means 115 contacts the base 305 or is suspended below a height of the surface of the base to prevent radiation from reaching the user. Alternatively, the second shielding means 115 may be rotated at a substantially orthogonal angle across the operating table 305 in a lateral direction with respect to the first shielding means 105. When the second shielding means 115 has a notch at the bottom to conform to the patient's body, this can provide access to the patient's lower limbs, for example, to secure access to the femoral vein for the user. The second shielding means 115 can be appropriately raised along the support means 145 to conform to the patient's physiology. For example, when the patient's head is positioned close to the second shielding means 115 (not shown), it is also conceivable that the second shielding means 115 can be arranged across the operating table 305 and in contact with the operating table 305. Therefore, a medical device such as a catheter or an arthroscopic instrument can be inserted into the patient's vascular system through an arm or a leg extending through the first shielding means 105 or the second shielding means 115 while minimizing the radiation reaching the user.

[0051] A radiographic method using any embodiment of the radiation shielding assembly 100 disclosed above is provided. The method includes arranging any one of the above radiation shielding assemblies or systems between the patient and the user such that a limb of the patient extends through the limb opening 110 in the shielding assembly, inserting a medical device into the vascular system of the limb, and irradiating the patient with radiation using a radiation generator 310 arranged such that the radiation is blocked from reaching the user by the shielding assembly 100 while passing at least partially through the patient.

[0052] C. Example For the purpose of evaluating embodiments of the shielding system, an analysis was performed at the examination site. A Siemens C-ARM x-ray source, typically used in fluoroscopic surgery, was used to generate secondary scatter radiation in two CIRS76-125 patient-equivalent phantoms. An analysis was performed to examine the scatter radiation through the custom shielding and contrast the results with unprotected shielding versus a lead apron.

[0053] The test specimen was a custom-made lead-acrylic radiation protection shield manufactured specifically for the C-ARM application. The shielding material had a density of 4.36 gcm -3 The shielding system consisted of a series of custom-fabricated, 18.8 mm thick lead acrylic materials (Sharp Mfg., West Bridgewater, MA) with a minimum density of 1.0 mm, a refractive index of 1.71, a coefficient of thermal expansion of 8E-6 / °C (30-380°), and a Knoop hardness of 370. Specifically, this material is a high optical grade lead barium type glass with over 60 percent heavy metal oxides, at least 55 percent PbO. The lead equivalent of this material is guaranteed by the manufacturer to be greater than 3.3 mmPb. A custom-fabricated shielding design with labels was constructed generally as shown in Figure 4. With the exception of the support system, which was fabricated from aluminum, the shielding system was fabricated from the exact same source material throughout. All panels were fabricated and cut by this manufacturer.

[0054] Scattered radiation was generated with a Siemens model 10394668 Medical C-ARM source with serial number 138 through a CIRS76-125 lead acrylic patient equivalent phantom limbs and torso (Computerized Imaging Reference Systems, Norfolk) used to represent a patient's torso with arms. The Siemens Medical C-ARM has a reported intrinsic filtration of 0.8 mmAl at 70 kV in addition to a size B diamentor chamber with 0.2 mmAl at 70 kV. No secondary filtration was used for the measurements described in this report.

[0055] Radiation measurements were performed using a Victoreen 470A Panoramic Survey Meter with serial number 2029. Calibration was carried out using a Cc-137 isotope source at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Radiation Research Institute.

[0056] Comparisons with lead aprons were performed using two products: a Techno Aide lead apron with serial number T116969 and a Xenolite with serial number 102001. According to the manufacturer's information, both lead aprons have a lead equivalent of 0.5 mm Pb.

[0057] The inspection methods and procedures were based on ASTM F3094 (Non-Patent Document 1), IEC61331-1 (Non-Patent Document 2), and medical physicists. The inspection methodology was developed and created prior to implementation. ASTM F3094 and IEC61331-1 are incorporated herein by reference so that those skilled in the art can implement this convention.

[0058] A custom-made lead acrylic shield was inspected for scattered radiation attenuation and further for uniformity. Further, measurements were taken along the main edge of the entire shield and further along the semi-circular part where the doctor places the patient's arm during surgery. Equivalent scattered radiation measurement values were compared with a 0.5 mm lead equivalent lead apron. The last set of measurements was taken without using a shield at the proper position. All data were recorded on-site. Using a 10-second exposure time and repeating to take the minimum value out of three times, all measurement values were recorded. The protection rating criteria were based on the measured scattered radiation attenuation from an 81 kV X-ray C-ARM source.

[0059] The radiation detected by the Victoreen 470A represents scattered X-ray radiation generated by the interaction of X-rays with a CIRS 76-125 patient equivalent phantom. The distance between the C-ARM X-ray source was set as the default distance of 17 inches or 43.18 cm used for patient examinations. This convention is referred to as the "Modified ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 Convention".

[0060] The average scattered radiation measurement values without using a shielding material can be confirmed in Table 1 below. All measurements were repeated three times to obtain the minimum value. The radiation measurement was first performed using a custom-made shield at the appropriate position, and for subsequent measurements without using a shielding material or comparative measurements with two lead aprons, the exact positions of the shield, phantom, and detector were marked.

[0061]

Table 1

[0062] All measurements were repeated three times to obtain the minimum value. The average scattered radiation measurements performed using a custom-made lead acrylic shield (Figure 12) can be confirmed in Table 2 below. The measurements performed through the custom-made shield and even through currently recognized lead aprons were of very low intensity, just slightly above the background radiation. As a result, the repeated measurements produced a lower standard deviation compared to the measurements without using a shielding material in Table 1 above.

[0063]

Table 2

[0064] Furthermore, measurements were taken to detect the radiation levels at the exact positions of the doctor during use. In particular, measurements were taken at the height of the doctor's groin and further at the height of the center of the doctor's chest. The results are summarized in Table 3 below.

[0065]

Table 3

[0066] Next, scattered radiation measurements were performed using a Techno Aide 0.5 mm Pb equivalent apron, which can be confirmed in Table 4 below. For the purpose of comparing the recognized medical radiation protection devices with those proposed in this study, measurements were made through a lead apron (Figure 13). In an attempt to provide as accurate information and comparison as possible, a rigorous comparison was used under the actual positions that occur in reality. Using Table 4 below, which summarizes the average values of the observed scattered radiation measurements along with the standard deviations, a graphical representation was created.

[0067]

Table 4

[0068] When the investigation measurements for the first 0.5 mm lead equivalent apron were completed, a second lead apron was selected and repeated measurements were carried out in exactly the same manner as those performed on the Techno Aide product. For the comparison of the second Zenolite lead apron, the average measured values for the scattered radiation measurements were summarized in Table 5 below.

[0069]

Table 5

[0070] As a sample of uniformity to ensure that there are no voids in the entire shielding device, two shielding components were measured. These measurements were carried out in the same manner as those described above. The results can be confirmed in Figures 14 and 15. The data is presented in the same format as Tables 1 - 4, using the reported average scattered radiation measurement values and the standard deviations in parentheses.

[0071] As illustrated by Figure 14, no significant voids were observed during the investigation measurements of the main panel A. The radiation measurements yielded values very close to the previously reported previous measurement values based on the median for individual panels. It should be added that the repeated measurements were essentially identical and produced a low standard deviation.

[0072] As illustrated by FIG. 15, four regions were investigated for uniformity using the main body panel A. The average measured radiation values are presented above along with the standard deviation in parentheses. A simple comparison of FIGS. 14 and 15 shows very close values between the main panel A and the main body panel A.

[0073] The pass / fail criteria are based on the pre - accepted performance criteria of industrially - graded lead acrylic custom - manufactured for C - ARM shielding equipment. Further, this shielding equipment must provide a higher protection than the currently approved lead aprons used for the same application. Using the Alabama guidelines, healthcare workers receive less than 5 rem per year, both as a shallow dose equivalent and as the pass / fail criteria.

[0074] The endpoint of this study is based on the normal completion of all measurements as directed by the Alabama guidelines for protective devices used by physicians during C - ARM patient examinations. The study endpoint is based, in particular, on comparable measurements performed using the currently approved lead apron versus a custom - manufactured lead acrylic shield without any kind of protective shielding.

[0075] The level of detectable radiation behind the custom - manufactured lead acrylic shield that was guaranteed was consistent with the calculated values based on the manufacturer's performance criteria. The detected radiation levels are within the range of the maximum allowable radiation dose for healthcare workers.

[0076] When compared to the currently approved lead apron, a relatively equivalent level of attenuated radiation was detected behind the custom shield. The performance of the custom shield and the lead apron in this case is mostly due to the detection of secondary radiation as opposed to primary radiation. Scattered equivalent primary radiation is used to determine the formal lead equivalent of the material. Under actual scattering conditions such as those used in this study, the amount of measurable secondary radiation is so low that no measurable difference between materials with different lead equivalents can be expected.

[0077] Using the currently recognized dose equivalent of 5 rem (R) per year with 52 working weeks per year and 40 hours of exposure per week, the total annual exposure using this shielding material prototype was calculated. According to the highest observed radiation measurement value of 0.25 mR / hr obtained during this study, for a 40-hour work week, a total dose of 10 mR per week is obtained. Using the average value of 0.25 mR / hr calculated from all measurement values, for a 40-hour work week, a total dose of 6.6 mR per week is obtained. Using the maximum possible dose of 10 mR per week, a custom-manufactured shielding material device yields 520 mR or 0.52 R per year.

[0078] D. Conclusion The foregoing description illustrates the processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of matter, and other teachings of this disclosure. In addition, while this disclosure has illustrated and described only certain specific embodiments of this disclosure's processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of matter, and other teachings, as noted above, the teachings of this disclosure are capable of various other combinations, modifications, and uses in accordance with the skills and / or knowledge of those of ordinary skill in the art and are capable of being changed and modified within the scope of the teachings expressly set forth herein. The embodiments described above further explain the known specific best modes of carrying out this disclosure's processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of matter, and other teachings and are intended to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the teachings of this disclosure in such or other embodiments and with the various modifications required by the particular applications or uses. Accordingly, this disclosure's processes, machines, manufactures, compositions of matter, and other teachings are not intended to be limited to the embodiments and examples disclosed herein. Any section headings herein are provided only for consistency with the proposals of 37 C.F.R. Section 1.77 or for the purpose of providing an organized arrangement and are not intended to limit or characterize the invention(s) described herein.

[0079] The present invention can alternatively or additionally comprise the following configurations. [Item 1] A radiation shielding assembly configured to block radiation emitted from a radiation source, (a) support means for supporting the assembly, (b) first shielding means in a first substantially vertical plane for blocking radiation from the radiation source, fixed to the support means and having a limb opening dimensioned to allow a human limb to pass through the first shielding means, the first shielding means; (c) second shielding means in a second substantially vertical plane for blocking radiation from the radiation source, fixed to the support means such that the second shielding means can translate and rotate relative to the first shielding means along a substantially vertical axis, the second shielding means, a radiation shielding assembly comprising. [Item 2] A third shielding means in a first substantially horizontal plane substantially orthogonal to the first vertical plane for blocking radiation from the limb opening, the third shielding means being fixed to the first shielding means such that the third shielding means translates and rotates with the first shielding means, the radiation shielding assembly according to Item 1 comprising the third shielding means. [Item 3] A fourth shielding means in a second substantially horizontal plane substantially orthogonal to the second vertical plane for blocking radiation from the radiation source, the fourth shielding means being fixed to the second shielding means such that the fourth shielding means translates and rotates with the second shielding means, the radiation shielding assembly according to Item 1 or 2 comprising the fourth shielding means. [Item 4] A fifth shielding means in a third substantially horizontal plane substantially orthogonal to the second substantially vertical plane and the second horizontal plane for blocking radiation from the radiation source, the fourth shielding means being connected to the second shielding means such that the fourth shielding means translates and rotates with the second shielding means, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 3 comprising the fifth shielding means. [Item 5] A radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 4, comprising a sixth shielding means in a fourth substantially vertical plane substantially parallel to the first substantially vertical plane for blocking radiation from the radiation source, the sixth shielding means being fixed to the first shielding means. [Item 6] It is within a fourth substantially vertical plane that is substantially parallel to the first substantially vertical plane, and includes a sixth shielding means for blocking radiation from the radiation source. The sixth shielding means is fixedly provided on the first shielding means. The sixth shielding means is selected from the group consisting of a generally flat shield, a flexible drape, and an extension of the first shielding means. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 5. [Item 7] The first shielding means and the second shielding means are configured to rotate relative to each other over an arc of at least about 90°. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 6. [Item 8] The first shielding means and the second shielding means are configured to rotate relative to each other over an arc of up to about 180°. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 7. [Item 9] The first shielding means and the second shielding means are configured to rotate relative to each other over an arc of about 0 to 180°. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 8. [Item 10] The support means includes a substantially vertical mast. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 9. [Item 11] The support means is capable of supporting approximately the total weight of the radiation shielding assembly. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 10. [Item 12] The support means is capable of supporting the total weight of the radiation shielding assembly. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 11. [Item 13] During operation, the support means supports the total weight of the radiation shielding assembly. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 12. [Item 14] The first shielding means and the third shielding means are configured to move vertically in tandem. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 13. [Item 15] The first shielding means and the third shielding means are configured to move vertically in tandem along the support means, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 14. [Item 16] The first shielding means is configured to translate along a substantially vertical axis such that, in the first position, the uppermost end of the first shielding means is at least as tall as an adult human's height above the floor, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 15. [Item 17] The first shielding means is configured to translate along a substantially vertical axis such that, in the first position, the uppermost end of the first shielding means is at least about 2 m above the floor, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 16. [Item 18] The first shielding means has a height that is at least as great as the distance from the upper surface of the operating table to the full body length of an average human, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 17. [Item 19] The first shielding means has a height that is at least as great as the distance from the upper surface of the operating table to a height of 2 m from the floor when the operating table is on the floor, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 18. [Item 20] At least one of the first shielding means, the second shielding means, the third shielding means, the fourth shielding means, or the fifth shielding means has a radiation impermeability of at least 0.5 mm lead equivalent, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 19. [Item 21] The first shielding means to the sixth shielding means have a radiation impermeability of at least 0.5 mm lead equivalent, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 20. [Item 22] At least one of the first shielding means, the second shielding means, the third shielding means, the fourth shielding means, or the fifth shielding means has a radiation impermeability of at least 1 mm lead equivalent, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 21. [Item 23] The first shielding means to the sixth shielding means are the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 22, having a radiation impermeability of at least 1 mm lead equivalent. [Item 24] At least one of the first shielding means, the second shielding means, the third shielding means, the fourth shielding means, or the fifth shielding means is the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 23, having a radiation impermeability of at least 1.5 mm lead equivalent. [Item 25] The first shielding means to the sixth shielding means are the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 24, having a radiation impermeability of at least 1.5 mm lead equivalent. [Item 26] At least one of the first shielding means, the second shielding means, the third shielding means, the fourth shielding means, or the fifth shielding means is the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 25, having a radiation impermeability of at least 2 mm lead equivalent. [Item 27] The first shielding means to the sixth shielding means are the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 26, having a radiation impermeability of at least 2 mm lead equivalent. [Item 28] At least one of the first shielding means, the second shielding means, the third shielding means, the fourth shielding means, or the fifth shielding means is the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 27, having a radiation impermeability of at least 3 mm lead equivalent. [Item 29] The first shielding means to the sixth shielding means are the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 28, having a radiation impermeability of at least 3 mm lead equivalent. [Item 30] At least one of the first shielding means, the second shielding means, the third shielding means, the fourth shielding means, or the fifth shielding means is the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 29, having a radiation impermeability of at least 3.3 mm lead equivalent. [Item 31] The first shielding means to the sixth shielding means are the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 30, having a radiation impermeability of at least 3.3 mm lead equivalent. [Item 32] At least one of the first shielding means to the sixth shielding means is the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 31, which reduces radiation exposure by at least 85% when measured according to the revised ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard. [Item 33] The first shielding means to the sixth shielding means are the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 32, which reduces radiation exposure by at least 85% when measured according to the revised ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard. [Item 34] At least one of the first shielding means to the sixth shielding means is the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 33, which reduces radiation exposure to less than 2.5 mR / hr when measured according to the revised ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard. [Item 35] The first shielding means to the sixth shielding means are the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 34, which reduces radiation exposure to less than 2.5 mR / hr when measured according to the revised ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard. [Item 36] At least one of the first shielding means to the sixth shielding means is the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 35, which reduces radiation exposure to about 2.5 mR / hr or less when measured according to the revised ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard. [Item 37] The first shielding means to the sixth shielding means are the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 36, which reduces radiation exposure to about 2.5 mR / hr or less when measured according to the revised ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard. [Item 38] The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 37, comprising a flexible radiation-impermeable member arranged to at least partially cover the limb opening and configured to allow a human limb to pass through the limb opening. [Item 39] The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 38, comprising a flexible radiation-impermeable member arranged to at least partially cover the limb opening and configured to allow a human limb to pass through the limb opening, the flexible radiation-impermeable member being selected from the group consisting of a curtain, an iris port leaf, and a sheath. [Item 40] The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 39, wherein the second shielding means and the fourth shielding means are configured to move in parallel with the support means. [Item 41] The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 40, comprising means for raising and lowering at least one of the first shielding means and the third shielding means along the support means. [Item 42] The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 41, comprising means for raising and lowering the first shielding means and the second shielding means independently of each other along the support means. [Item 43] The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 42, comprising means for raising and lowering the first shielding means and the second shielding means along the support means. [Item 44] The means for raising and lowering is selected from the group consisting of an assist mechanism, a counterweight system, an electric motor, a hydraulic system, a pneumatic system, and a manual system, for the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 43. [Item 45] The support means comprises a mast supported by a floor stand, for the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 44. [Item 46] The supporting means is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 45. [Item 47] The supporting means is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, and the mast is rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the overhead boom, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 46. [Item 48] The supporting means is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, and the mast is pivotable with respect to the overhead boom, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 47. [Item 49] The supporting means is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, and the mast is translatable along the longitudinal axis of the overhead boom, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 48. [Item 50] The supporting means is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, and the overhead boom is supported by a second mast, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 49. [Item 51] The supporting means is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, and the overhead boom is supported by a second mast, and the second mast is supported by a rail installed on a wall or ceiling, and the second mast is translatable along the rail installed on the wall or ceiling, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 50. [Item 52] The supporting means is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, and the overhead boom is supported by a second mast, and the second mast is supported by a swing arm installed on a wall or ceiling, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 51. [Item 53] The support means is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, the overhead boom is supported by a second mast, the second mast is supported by a swing arm, and the swing arm is supported by a rail installed on a wall or ceiling, and the swing arm is capable of translating along the rail installed on the wall or ceiling. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 52. [Item 54] At least one of the first shielding means to the sixth shielding means is transparent to visible light. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 53. [Item 55] The first shielding means to the sixth shielding means are transparent to visible light. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 54. [Item 56] The support means is constructed to support at least the majority of the weight of the radiation shielding assembly. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 55. [Item 57] The first shielding means is a first generally flat and vertical shield. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 56. [Item 58] The third shielding means is a first generally horizontal shield. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 57. [Item 59] The second shielding means is a second generally flat and vertical shield. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 58. [Item 60] The fourth shielding means is a second generally horizontal shield. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 59. [Item 61] The fifth shielding means is a lower generally flat and vertical shield. The radiation shielding assembly according to any one of Items 1 to 60. [Item 62] (a) The first shielding means is a first generally flat and vertical shield, (b) The third shielding means is a first substantially horizontal shield, (c) The second shielding means is a second generally flat and vertical shield, (d) The fourth shielding means is a second substantially horizontal shield, (e) The fifth shielding means is a lower generally flat and vertical shield, the radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 61. [Item 63] A radiation shielding assembly configured to block radiation emitted from a radiation source, (a) A support arm having a longitudinal axis, constructed to support at least a majority of the weight of the shielding assembly, (b) A first generally flat and vertical shield fixed to the support arm and having an opening near the lower end dimensioned to allow a human limb to pass through, (c) A second generally flat and vertical shield that is translationally and rotatably connected to the support arm so as to rotate about an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support arm and translate along the axis, The first vertical shield, the first horizontal shield, the second vertical shield, the second horizontal shield, and the lower vertical shield are all radiation-impermeable, the radiation shielding assembly. [Item 64] The radiation shielding assembly according to item 63, comprising a first substantially horizontal shield connected to the first vertical shield so as to translate and rotate with the first vertical shield and arranged to block radiation emitted from the opening of the first vertical shield. [Item 65] The radiation shielding assembly according to item 63 or 64, comprising a second substantially horizontal shield connected to the second vertical shield so as to translate and rotate with the second vertical shield. [Item 66] A radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 63 to 65, comprising a lower generally flat and vertical shield connected to the second horizontal shield so as to translate and rotate with the second horizontal shield and the second vertical shield, the lower shield being substantially orthogonal to the second vertical shield and the second horizontal shield. [Item 67] A radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 63 to 66, comprising a third generally vertical shield that blocks radiation from a radiation source and is in a generally vertical plane that is substantially parallel to the generally flat and vertical shield, the third generally vertical shield being fixed to the first shielding means. [Item 68] A radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 67, comprising a sixth shielding means that blocks radiation from a radiation source and is in a fourth generally vertical plane that is substantially parallel to the first generally vertical plane, the sixth shielding means being fixed to the first shielding means, and the third generally vertical shield being selected from the group consisting of a generally flat and faithful shield, a flexible drape, and an extension of the first generally flat and vertical shield. [Item 69] A radiation shielding assembly configured to block radiation emitted from a radiation source, (a) a support arm having a longitudinal axis configured to support at least a majority of the weight of the shielding assembly; (b) a first generally flat and vertical shield fixed to the support arm via a first radiation-impermeable joint; (c) a second generally flat and vertical shield that rotates about an axis that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support arm and translates along the axis, and is translationally and rotatably connected to the support arm via a second radiation-impermeable joint. [Item 70] A radiation shielding assembly according to item 69, comprising a lower generally flat and vertical shield connected to the second generally flat and vertical shield so as to translate and rotate with the second vertical shield, the lower shield being substantially orthogonal to the second vertical shield and the second horizontal shield. [Item 71] A system for shielding a user from a lower-mounted X-ray projection apparatus while the user is treating a supine patient positioned above the X-ray projection apparatus, comprising: (a) a table configured to support a patient, having a longitudinal axis and a transverse axis; (b) an X-ray projection apparatus disposed below the table; (c) an image intensifier disposed above the table to receive X-rays projected from the X-ray projection apparatus; (d) a radiation-impermeable curtain shield extending downward from the table at at least a first side portion of the table; (e) a radiation shielding assembly, comprising: (i) a support arm configured to support the weight of the shielding assembly and having a generally vertical longitudinal axis; (ii) a first shielding assembly fixed to the support arm, comprising: (A) a first generally flat and vertical shield disposed near a first side portion of the table and generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the table; (B) an opening in the first vertical shield, the opening being disposed above the table such that a patient's arm can pass through the opening; (iii) a second shielding assembly fixed to the support arm such that the second shielding assembly can rotate and translate about an axis generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the support arm, the second shielding assembly having a second generally flat and vertical shield disposed above the table; The second vertical shield can be rotated about an axis of the second vertical shield that is generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the table or generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of the table. [Item 72] The system according to Item 71, wherein the first shielding assembly comprises a first generally horizontal shield disposed above the opening to block radiation emitted through the opening. [Item 73] The second shielding assembly is the system according to item 71 or 72, comprising a second generally horizontal shielding connected to the second vertical shielding and disposed above the table. [Item 74] The second shielding assembly is the system according to any one of items 71 to 73, comprising a lower generally flat and vertical shielding extending downward from the second horizontal shielding to below the table. [Item 75] The first generally flat and vertical shielding and the second generally flat and vertical shielding are configured to rotate relative to each other over an arc of at least about 90°, for the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 74. [Item 76] The first generally flat and vertical shielding and the second generally flat and vertical shielding are configured to rotate relative to each other over an arc of up to 180°, for the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 75. [Item 77] The first generally flat and vertical shielding and the second generally flat and vertical shielding are configured to rotate relative to each other over an arc of about 0 to 180°, for the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 76. [Item 78] The support arm comprises a generally vertical mast, for the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 77. [Item 79] The support arm is capable of supporting approximately the total weight of the radiation shielding assembly, for the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 78. [Item 80] The support arm is capable of supporting the total weight of the radiation shielding assembly, for the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 79. [Item 81] During operation, the support arm supports the entire weight of the radiation shield assembly, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 80. [Item 82] The first generally flat and vertical shield is configured to translate vertically, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 81. [Item 83] The first generally flat and vertical shield and the first generally horizontal shield are configured to translate co-axially vertically, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 82. [Item 84] The first generally flat and vertical shield is configured to translate along the support arm, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 83. [Item 85] The first generally flat and vertical shield and the first generally horizontal shield are configured to translate co-axially along the support arm, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 84. [Item 86] The first generally flat and vertical shield is configured to translate along a generally vertical axis such that, in a first position, the uppermost end of the first generally flat and vertical shield is at least about the height of an adult human above the floor, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 85. [Item 87] The first generally flat and vertical shield is configured to translate along a generally vertical axis such that, in a first position, the uppermost end of the first generally flat and vertical shield is at least about 2 m above the floor, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 86. [Item 88] The first generally flat and vertical shield has a height that is at least about the distance from the upper surface of the operating table to the full body length of an average human, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 87. [Item 89] The first generally flat and vertical shield has a height of at least a distance of about 2 m from the upper surface of the operating table to the floor when the operating table is on the floor, and is the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 88. [Item 90] At least one of the shields has a radiation impermeability of at least 0.5 mm lead equivalent, and is the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 89. [Item 91] All of the shields have a radiation impermeability of at least 0.5 mm lead equivalent, and is the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 90. [Item 92] At least one of the shields has a radiation impermeability of at least 1 mm lead equivalent, and is the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 91. [Item 93] All of the shields have a radiation impermeability of at least 1 mm lead equivalent, and is the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 92. [Item 94] At least one of the shields has a radiation impermeability of at least 1.5 mm lead equivalent, and is the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 93. [Item 95] All of the shields have a radiation impermeability of at least 1.5 mm lead equivalent, and is the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 94. [Item 96] At least one of the shields has a radiation impermeability of at least 2 mm lead equivalent, and is the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 95. [Item 97] All of the shields have a radiation impermeability of at least 2 mm lead equivalent, and is the radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 96. [Item 98] At least one of the shields is a radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 97, having a radiation impermeability of at least 3 mm lead equivalent. [Item 99] All of the shields are a radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 98, having a radiation impermeability of at least 3 mm lead equivalent. [Item 100] At least one of the shields is a radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 99, having a radiation impermeability of at least 3.3 mm lead equivalent. [Item 101] All of the shields are a radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 100, having a radiation impermeability of at least 3.3 mm lead equivalent. [Item 102] At least one of the shields is a radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 101, reducing radiation exposure by at least 85% when measured according to the modified ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard. [Item 103] All of the shields are a radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 102, reducing radiation exposure by at least 85% when measured according to the modified ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard. [Item 104] At least one of the shields is a radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 103, reducing radiation exposure to less than 2.5 mR / hr when measured according to the modified ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard. [Item 105] All of the shields are a radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 104, reducing radiation exposure to less than 2.5 mR / hr when measured according to the modified ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard. [Item 106] At least one of the shields is a radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 105 that reduces radiation exposure to about 2.5 mR / hr or less when measured according to the modified ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard. [Item 107] All of the shields are a radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 106 that reduces radiation exposure to about 2.5 mR / hr or less when measured according to the modified ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard. [Item 108] The second generally flat and vertical shield and the second generally horizontal shield are configured to move together translationally along the support arm, a radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 107. [Item 109] A radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 108, comprising a flexible radiation-impermeable member arranged to at least partially cover the limb opening and configured to allow a human limb to pass through the limb opening. [Item 110] A radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 109, comprising a flexible radiation-impermeable member arranged to at least partially cover the limb opening and configured to allow a human limb to pass through the limb opening, the flexible radiation-impermeable member being selected from the group consisting of a curtain, an iris port leaf, and a sheath. [Item 111] A radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 110, comprising means for raising and lowering at least one of the first generally flat and vertical shield and the first generally horizontal shield along the support arm. [Item 112] Means for raising and lowering at least one of the first generally flat and vertical shield and the first generally horizontal shield along a support arm, the means for raising and lowering being selected from the group consisting of a support mechanism, a counterweight system, an electric motor, a hydraulic system, a pneumatic system, and a manual system, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 111. [Item 113] The support arm includes a mast supported by a floor stand, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 112. [Item 114] The support arm is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 113. [Item 115] The support arm is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, and the mast is capable of rotating about the longitudinal axis of the overhead boom, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 114. [Item 116] The support arm is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, and the overhead boom is supported by a second mast, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 115. [Item 117] The support arm is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, and the second mast is supported by rails installed on a wall or ceiling, and the second mast is capable of translating along the rails installed on the wall or ceiling, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 116. [Item 118] The support arm is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, and the second mast is supported by a swing arm installed on a wall or ceiling, the radiation shield assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 117. [Item 119] The support arm is a mast suspended by an overhead boom, and the second mast is supported by a swing arm which is supported by a rail installed on a wall or ceiling, and the swing arm is capable of translating along the rail installed on the wall or ceiling. The radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 118. [Item 120] At least one of the shields is transparent to visible light. The radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 119. [Item 121] All of the shields are transparent to visible light. The radiation shielding assembly or system according to any one of items 62 to 120. [Item 122] A radiography method, (a) Placing a radiation shielding assembly according to any one of items 1 to 121 between a patient and a user such that a limb of the patient extends through a limb opening in the shielding assembly; (b) Inserting a medical device into the vascular system of the limb; (c) Irradiating the patient with radiation using a radiation generator arranged such that radiation passes at least partially through the patient while being blocked from reaching the user by the shielding assembly. A radiography method.

Claims

1. A radiation shielding assembly configured to shield radiation emitted from a radiation source installed below a table for supporting a patient, the assembly comprising: (a) a first substantially planar vertical shield; (b) a second substantially planar vertical shield; and (c) a support arm configured to support the first substantially planar vertical shield and the second substantially planar vertical shield. The first substantially planar vertical shield is coupled to the second substantially planar vertical shield to form a radiation-impermeable barrier. The first substantially planar vertical shield and the second substantially planar vertical shield are positionable on the table. The radiation shielding assembly is configured such that at least one of the first substantially planar vertical shield and the second substantially planar vertical shield is rotatable relative to the other about a substantially vertical axis. The radiation shielding assembly is configured to position the first substantially planar vertical shield and the second substantially planar vertical shield to protect a user's upper body from the radiation emitted from the radiation source.

2. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first substantially planar vertical shield is configured such that an upper end of the first substantially planar vertical shield is at a position at least 175 cm from the floor.

3. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, wherein the upper end of the first substantially planar vertical shield is configured to be positioned at least at a height corresponding to the height of an adult human on the floor surface.

4. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first substantially planar vertical shield has a height of at least a distance from an upper surface of the table to an average human height.

5. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first substantially planar vertical shield is fixed to the support arm, and the second substantially planar vertical shield is fixed to the support arm.

6. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, wherein the support arm is configured to translate the first substantially planar vertical shield and the second substantially planar vertical shield relative to the table.

7. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, wherein the support arm is supported from overhead.

8. ​ ​ The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, wherein during operation, the support arm supports the entire weight of the radiation shielding assembly.

9. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first substantially planar vertical shield and the second substantially planar vertical shield is configured to translate along the support arm.

10. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first substantially planar vertical shield and the second substantially planar vertical shield are configured to be positioned so as to protect the user's head from the radiation emitted from the radiation source.

11. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, wherein the support arm is configured to position the first substantially planar vertical shield and the second substantially planar vertical shield to protect the user's upper body from the radiation emitted from the radiation source.

12. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, wherein one or both of the shields have a radiation impermeability of at least 0.5 mm lead equivalent.

13. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, further comprising a third substantially planar vertical shield fixed to the first substantially planar vertical shield.

14. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 13, wherein the third substantially planar vertical shield is translationally stationary with respect to the first substantially planar vertical shield.

15. The radiation shielding assembly according to claim 1, wherein both of the shields reduce radiation exposure to less than 2.5 mR / hr when measured according to the modified ASTM F3094 / IEC61331-1 standard.

16. A radiation shielding assembly configured to shield radiation emitted from a radiation source installed below a table for supporting a patient, the assembly comprising: (a) a first substantially planar vertical shield having an X-ray impermeability of at least 0.5 mm lead equivalent; (b) a second substantially planar vertical shield having an X-ray impermeability of at least 0.5 mm lead equivalent; (c) a support arm suspended from overhead and configured to support the entire weight of the first substantially planar vertical shield and the second substantially planar vertical shield and. The first substantially planar vertical shield is coupled to the second substantially planar vertical shield to form a radiation-impermeable barrier, The support arm is capable of positioning the first substantially planar vertical shield and the second substantially planar vertical shield on the table, The radiation shield assembly is configured such that at least one of the first substantially planar vertical shield and the second substantially planar vertical shield is rotatable relative to the other about a substantially vertical axis, The radiation shield assembly is configured to position the first substantially planar vertical shield and the second substantially planar vertical shield to protect the upper body of the user from the radiation emitted from the radiation source.

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