July 29, 2025

Radiaction Medical’s mission is straightforward: to provide advanced solutions to shield physicians and clinical staff from the harmful health effects of fluoroscopic scatter radiation and the heavy protective gear used to block it. In this light, we are thrilled to partner with Burlington Medical to further transform scatter radiation protection by introducing innovative ergonomic aprons that reduce pressure on key muscles and offer improved weight distribution. They allow healthcare teams to alleviate the burden of cumbersome lead aprons by offering a lightweight alternative that enhances comfort and protection.

WHY LIGHTER MATTERS

The significant health risks of scatter radiation exposure in interventional suites are worsened by traditional protective gear. Over the course of a career, performing lengthy, complex procedures while wearing a protective apron weighing more than 20 pounds can cause serious physical strain, impacting musculoskeletal health and leading to discomfort and issues in the muscles, joints, and spine. A healthcare provider shouldn’t have to bear that burden. In a 2023 SCAI (Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions) survey of interventional cardiologists, nearly 60% of respondents reported experiencing some form of orthopedic injury.

Fortunately, this kind of exposure and impact are quickly becoming obsolete. For example, Burlington Medical’s EtherealShield offers a huge improvement with its lightweight construction. The design reduces strain on the body while providing the same level of protection, but is much lighter, creating a much more comfortable physical experience without compromising safety. Instead of hastily eliminating aprons altogether, Radiaction Medical has taken a more measured approach that provides benefits without increasing risks: we simply lighten the load.

Christopher Barys, CEO of Radiaction Medical, is particularly excited about the new partnership with Burlington Medical: “I’m eager to see the next generation of operators who will work in improved environments, reducing issues related to orthopedic strain and scatter radiation. The outdated use of heavy aprons will soon be replaced with radiation protection tailored to your body. The Radiaction Dynamic Smart Shield technology will enable operators to perform optimally by addressing the burdens of heavy lead and minimizing scatter radiation exposure.”

SO LIGHT, YOU’LL FORGET YOU’RE WEARING IT

EtherealShield 0.125 mm is part of Burlington Medical’s Xenolite® line of smart attenuation materials, representing a major advancement in radiation protection aprons. Engineered with patented polyolefin elastomer technology, EtherealShield 0.125 mm provides the same trusted, high-performance, lead-free protection found in all Xenolite products. It offers exceptional durability, sustainability, and radiation attenuation, hallmarks of the Xenolite standard.

EtherealShield 0.125 mm

True to its name, “Ethereal” offers an astonishingly lightweight experience, so much so that you might even forget you’re wearing it. Physicians, operators, technicians, and medical staff can now move about and perform their duties with ease, even in the most challenging environments. This marks a new era of comfort and protection, plus every EtherealShield apron is clearly labeled 0.125 mm LEV on the left shoulder for easy identification and to ensure it’s used only in approved procedure rooms.

The 0.125 mm EtherealShield reinforces our commitment to using lightweight aprons as a responsible step toward reducing strain. When combined with the Radiaction Dynamic Smart Shield, this groundbreaking combination significantly eases discomfort and reduces scatter radiation for medical professionals.

“The landscape of healthcare is rapidly changing, and the demands on hospitals, providers, and care teams have become more complex than ever,” said Christopher Barys. “Our clients have clearly expressed a need for streamlined solutions to address orthopedic problems related to protection from scatter radiation. At Radiaction Medical, we are committed to driving our offerings to meet these needs, and with the support of Burlington Medical, our comprehensive solution represents real progress. Together with our Radiaction system, we can enhance efficiency, streamline workflows, and ultimately help to improve the lives of those who care for us.”

REVOLUTIONARY SCATTER RADIATION PROTECTION

The Radiaction Dynamic Smart Shield is designed to reduce scatter radiation at the source during interventional procedures. Combined with the lightweight EtherealShield 0.125 mm aprons, it provides enhanced protection while significantly lessening physical strain on medical professionals compared to traditional 0.5 mm aprons. The EtherealShield apron offers up to 90% radiation attenuation when paired with a radiation source-blocking system, such as the Radiaction system, ensuring wearer comfort throughout every procedure.

Lee Ann Fachko, CEO of Burlington Medical, put it this way: “We are thrilled to join forces with Radiaction Medical to safeguard cath lab professionals from the dangers of scatter radiation. This strategic partnership will enhance access to lighter lead-free protection, and when paired with Radiaction’s Dynamic Smart Shield solution, it will empower those performing fluoroscopy interventional procedures to work more safely and effectively.”

Burlington Medical is a leader in radiation safety, offering lightweight, lead-free aprons that are the best in the industry. Their deep understanding of the health and safety challenges faced by healthcare professionals is why we joined forces with them. Burlington Medical provides exceptional in-person fittings, the fastest lead times in the industry, and cost-effective solutions. They are the only USA-based provider offering fully tailored apparel custom-fit to the wearer’s exact measurements.

By reducing the burden of heavy aprons and utilizing the Radiaction system’s advanced technology to minimize radiation exposure, we are redefining safety and effectiveness in the cath lab workplace. Our collaboration will empower medical professionals to concentrate on critical, lifesaving tasks for their patients while being fully confident that their own health is protected. We acknowledge and understand our customers’ concerns about scatter radiation and their need to be relieved from the weight of heavy protective apparel. However, we are committed to providing only thoroughly tested, proven technology. With ongoing research, a safe, lead-free future is on the horizon. For now, let’s focus on lightening the load.

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