Lateral Scatter Shield
The Rothband RPAB Lateral Scatter Shield is designed to provide an additional barrier against scatter radiation for clinicians working close to the patient during fluoroscopically and radiographically guided interventional procedures.
Originally developed in collaboration with clinicians at Royal Stoke University Hospital, the shield was designed particularly for transradial catheterisation, where the operator may work in close proximity to the patient and therefore to a significant source of scattered radiation. It can also be used across a wide range of endovascular and interventional procedures.
Constructed from lightweight, radiolucent carbon fibre, the RPAB is positioned between the patient mattress and the X-ray table. The patient’s weight helps hold the shield securely in position, allowing it to sit close to the source of scatter without requiring additional floor-mounted equipment.
The shield incorporates 0.5 mm lead equivalent protection within two of its carbon-fibre surfaces. The upper section provides a 15 cm protected area, while the curved section provides a further 10 cm protected area. A radiolucent carbon-fibre blade extends beneath the patient to support and position the device while minimising interference with imaging.
Designed for Interventional Radiation Protection
During interventional procedures, the patient is a major source of scattered X-radiation. The RPAB Lateral Scatter Shield creates an additional physical barrier close to the patient to help reduce laterally emitted scatter reaching members of the clinical team.
It is particularly suited to situations where the operator must remain close to the patient throughout a radiographically guided procedure.
Key Features
- 0.5 mm lead equivalent shielding integrated into two surfaces
- Lightweight carbon-fibre construction
- Designed to provide additional protection from patient-generated lateral scatter radiation
- Developed for transradial catheterisation
- Suitable for a wider range of interventional and endovascular procedures
- Radiolucent blade positions beneath the patient and has minimal impact on imaging
- Simple table-mounted design with no additional floor-mounted support required
- Can also provide support for the patient's arm during radial procedures
- Designed for use with an appropriate sterile barrier
- Estimated service life of up to 20 years, subject to appropriate inspection, care and use
Additional Protection — Not a Replacement for PPE
The RPAB Lateral Scatter Shield is intended to complement established radiation protection measures. It does not replace normal radiation protection precautions or personal protective equipment, such as protective garments, that should be used within controlled areas.
For continued radiation protection integrity, the Instructions for Use recommend that the shield is inspected and screened every 12 months as part of an ongoing radiation safety programme.
