Breast Cancer Awareness
Radiation Protection tailored for women
Enhancing Protection for Women in the Cath Lab & Clinical Settings
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to not only focus on early detection and treatment but also to highlight ways we can better protect women in healthcare environments. At Protech Medical, where we specialize in manufacturing custom radiation protection garments, our mission aligns closely with the principles of ALARA keeping radiation exposure “As Low As Reasonably Achievable.” This means going beyond the basics to ensure every healthcare worker receives protection that is both effective and comfortable, with a particular focus this month on women in the cath lab and other clinical settings.
The Importance of Proper Coverage in the Chest and Armpit Area
Radiation exposure in interventional radiology and cath lab procedures often comes from multiple angles. Traditional lead aprons provide protection, but many designs leave the axilla (underarm area) and upper chest vulnerable. For women, this exposure can pose additional risks, especially in breast tissue and surrounding lymph nodes.
This is why proper coverage in the chest and armpit area is not optional, it’s essential. Incorporating axillary protection helps close the gap, ensuring radiation scatter doesn’t reach these sensitive areas.
Axillary Wings: An Essential Add-On for Women’s Safety
We recommend axillary wings as the minimum coverage option for women working in radiology and cath labs. Axillary wings are designed to extend protection into the underarm area, shielding tissue that is otherwise exposed during procedures. They are lightweight, comfortable, and seamlessly integrate into apron designs without restricting movement.
Axillary wings are available as an add-on for most Proguard apron styles, providing extra protection right where it’s needed. Whether you need front or full coverage, you’re fully supported. Choose snap-on wings for adaptable, procedure-specific protection, or sewn-in wings for a permanent safeguard. Making axillary wings a standard feature ensures women feel secure, with protection that addresses one of the most often overlooked exposure points.
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Apron Sleeves: Full Coverage With Versatility
For women seeking maximum upper-body protection, apron sleeves are a simple and effective solution. These sleeves extend shielding to the chest, armpits, and upper arms, covering areas where scatter radiation likes to “sneak in.” This is especially beneficial for staff who spend long hours in fluoroscopy-guided procedures.
For the perfect balance of coverage and mobility, we recommend short, snap-on apron sleeves. Much like axillary wings, these sleeves give your apron the flexibility to adapt to different procedures. They’re easy to attach when you need extra shielding, and just as easy to remove when you don’t. Apron sleeves keep protection seamless and movement effortless, making advanced protection feel like second nature.
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The Importance of a Well-Fitted Apron
No matter how advanced the protection options are, their effectiveness depends on proper fit. A poorly fitted apron can leave gaps in coverage, strain the body, and reduce compliance. That’s why Protech specializes in custom-fitted aprons tailored to each clinician’s measurements.
- A well-fitted apron:
- Reduces open gaps where scatter radiation can enter.
- Distributes weight evenly, reducing fatigue.
- Enhances confidence in daily protection.
Your protection should feel like it was made just for you. Our team is happy to connect you with a local Protech representative for a personal fitting.
Commitment to ALARA and Women’s Safety
The ALARA principle isn’t just about compliance, it’s about commitment. Protech offers enhanced options like axillary wings, apron sleeves, and custom-fit aprons so women in healthcare have access to protection designed for their unique needs. When we design garments for radiology professionals, our focus is clear: protect the most vulnerable areas, reduce long-term risks, and empower healthcare workers to step into every procedure with confidence. Because safety isn’t just a feature of our products—it’s the foundation of our promise.
Final Thoughts
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a reminder of the importance of proactive protection. For women working in the cath lab and clinical settings, every detail matters. At Protech, we’re proud to provide custom solutions that prioritize women’s safety, ensuring ALARA is more than a guideline, it’s a reality.
