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The Hidden Impact of Radiography and Fluoroscopy—An Environmental Life Cycle Assessment

Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To assess the environmental impact of radiography and fluoroscopy, using life cycle assessment (LCA), focusing on energy use and emissions. METHODS: This International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14040-guided LCA-based study focused on radiography and fluoroscopy services, including the production and use of two radiography and two fluoroscopy machines, at a quaternary care 800-bed academic medical center in the Southeastern United States over a 1-year period. Data were collected through direct observation, record review, staff interviews, and energy metering. Environmental impacts were assessed using SimaPro 9.3.0.2 and the Ecoinvent v3.8 database. RESULTS: e per scan). Medical linens or textiles accounted for 24% of total emissions. Other significant environmental impacts included ozone depletion, smog, acidification, and eutrophication. DISCUSSION: Reducing energy consumption by decarbonizing electricity sources and optimizing equipment use can significantly decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Implementing sustainable practices in linen use, procurement, and end-of-life management is also crucial. Reducing low-value imaging can further mitigate environmental impact.
DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2025.09.020
Authors: Elizabeth J. Snyder, Cassandra L. Thiel, Olesya Struk, Marta Vigil-Garcia, Cecilia Meijer, Josephine Gehrels, Reed A. Omary, John R. Scheel, Diana E. Carver
Language: English
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,810
Funders: Philips Medical Systems, 3M, Stanford University, Connecticut Breast Health Initiative, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Boston Medical Center, University of Colorado, Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University, National Cancer Institute
OpenAlex ID: W4414803218
FWCI: 1.132
Cites: 18
Cited by: 4
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