In plain language
In a web survey of 424 interventional cardiologists, 42% self-reported spine problems and 28% hip, knee, or ankle problems; spine problems tracked with caseload and years in practice, and over one-third of those affected missed work.
At a glance
- Type of study
- Original research, Cross-sectional survey
- Who was studied
- Interventional cardiologists
- Size
- n = 424 survey respondents (SCAI members)
- Topics
- Musculoskeletal injury and ergonomicsPersonal protective equipmentEye lens and cataractsCancer riskWorkforce and careers
- Summary based on
- the abstract
What it found
Spine problems were reported by 42% of respondents, 70% of them lumbosacral and 30% cervical.
Key figures: 42%; 70% lumbosacral, 30% cervical
Over one-third of those reporting spine problems said these had caused them to miss work.
Key figures: over one-third
Hip, knee, or ankle problems were reported by 28% of operators.
Key figures: 28%
Spine problems were related to annual procedural caseload and years in practice.
Results of the radiation-related queries (cataracts and cancers) were inconclusive.
Limits to keep in mind
Self-reported yes/no web survey with roughly a 26% response rate (424 of over 1,600 members), so responder and recall bias are likely; no control group or objective confirmation of diagnoses. The link to lead aprons is hypothesized, not measured.
Related research summaries
- Occupational Health Hazards in the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory: Results of the 2023 SCAI Survey (2025, Cross-sectional survey)
- Radiation Exposure, Training, and Safety in Cardiology (2024, Narrative review)
- Aegrescit medendo: orthopedic disability in electrophysiology, call for fluoroscopy elimination, review and commentary (2022, Editorial or commentary)
- SCAI Multi-Society Position Statement on Occupational Health Hazards (2020, Guideline or consensus statement)
- Occupational Hazards for Interventional Cardiologists (2006, Editorial or commentary)
How this summary was made
ORSIF prepared this summary with AI assistance from the abstract of the paper. A program then checked that the passage supporting each finding appears word for word in that source. A person has not yet reviewed each summary, so read the original before relying on a number. ORSIF summarizes research and does not endorse any product or company. Report a problem with this summary.
Prepared November 3, 2026.