What is the purpose of using lead curtains in fluoroscopy suites?

The use of lead curtains in fluoroscopy suites is primarily designed to protect the technologist from radiation exposure. Fluoroscopy involves the continuous exposure of both the patient and medical staff to ionizing radiation. By incorporating lead curtains, which have a high atomic number and density, the protective barriers effectively attenuate the radiation, minimizing the risk of radiation-related health issues for the personnel operating imaging equipment.

While improving image quality and patient comfort are important aspects of the fluoroscopic procedure, they do not specifically relate to the function of lead curtains, which are fundamentally safety devices. Protecting the patient from unnecessary radiation exposure is managed through other means, such as the technique used during the procedure and minimizing exposure time, but the curtains' primary function is to safeguard the healthcare workers in the suite.