Quality control and radiation safety in cardiac catheterization laboratories using the “Cardiology Information Systems”

The experience with an information system network using the “Cardiology Information System” in the Cardiopulmonary Department of a University Clinic are reported here. From decentralized work stations the results of various clinical investigations are documented and put together for complete documentation and quality control. For 3,000 invasive studies various parameters were investigated. Mean radiation time for diagnostic catheterization was 10.9±8 min. If PTCA was performed immediately after the diagnostic procedure the radiation exposure was less than in case the PTCA was performed electively (p<0,0001). The use of biplane as compared to single-plane fluoroscopy enhanced the radiation exposure (p=0.0003). The use of a relational database “Cardiology Information System” for documentation and quality control of invasive and noninvasive studies allows a fast reporting system and reliable individual and statistical information on different diagnostic and interventional procedures