Lead aprons are no longer needed for patients during X-ray exams

Research shows there is no evidence that routine X-rays taken in a radiology department damage thereproductive organs. Therefore, lead aprons/shields are notnecessary to cover a patient’s pelvis during routine X-rayexams. This follows national recommendations by medicalsocieties including the American College of Radiology(ACR) and American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM).

Yale Health is confident that this new practice is safe for patients and has adapted the new practice. At Yale Health facilities, lead aprons are no longer used on patients undergoing routine X-rays. The X-ray technologists at these facilities always follow the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable). This means they will use the lowest amount of radiation to produce quality images

If you have any questions, feel free to speak to your X-ray technologist.