Introduction: Roadmap imaging is a cornerstone of interventional radiology, providing real-time navigation through contrast-enhanced vascular overlays. However, the terminology and implementation of this technology, particularly regarding the distinction between real-time Roadmap Acquisition Mode (RAM) and retrospective Mask Recall Mode (MRM), vary inconsistently across vendors. This can hinder training, limit reproducibility, and reduce the optimal use of roadmap imaging in high-stakes procedures.
Methods: Eight expert radiographers conducted a narrative review using a triangulated approach that combined literature analysis, vendor manual review, and hands-on evaluation of five state-of-the-art angiography systems. They developed a vendor-neutral RAM vs. MRM classification across seven technical domains, supported by expert-consensus evaluation.
Results: The analysis revealed significant variability in roadmap terminology, system behaviour, and user interface design. Despite system-level differences, the systems could be consistently categorised according to their functional characteristics rather than their proprietary labels. RAM was defined by real-time acquisition with motion-adaptive overlays, while MRM referred to static, retrospectively acquired image masks. To help radiographers select the optimal modality for a given situation while taking into account anatomical dynamics, dose management, and procedural phase, a decision-making flowchart and practical guide were developed.
Conclusion: RAM and MRM are fundamentally distinct modalities that require different application timings and levels of operator expertise. A clear, standardized classification can support safer, more effective use of the roadmap, as well as streamline the procedure.
Implications for practice: This framework positions radiographers as active procedural leaders rather than technical executors. Standardizing roadmap terminology can promote cross-platform skills, improve communication within hybrid teams, and reinforce the interventional radiographer's role in providing dose-conscious, high-efficiency interventional care.
Introduction: Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) creation is one of the most complex and radiation-intensive procedures in abdominal interventional radiology. Radiation-induced skin injuries may occur at doses above 2 Gy. This study aimed to evaluate patient radiation exposure during TIPS performed in a single high-volume referral center (>20 procedures/year).
Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of 359 consecutive TIPS performed between July 2017 and December 2024. Real-time ultrasound guidance was systematically used for portal vein targeting. Radiation exposure was assessed using cumulative air kerma at the interventional reference point (Ka,r) and fluoroscopy time (XrT). Data were analyzed according to patient body mass index (BMI) and angiographic equipment.
Results: The mean Ka,r was 0.18 ± 0.22 Gy, with a maximum of 1.56 Gy. No patient exceeded the 2 Gy trigger level, and no skin injuries were reported at follow-up. Mean XrT was 775 ± 606 s, with only two cases exceeding 60 min (cumulative Ka,r 0.15 ± 0.18 Gy vs 0.24 ± 0.27 Gy, p = 0.0004). Obese patients showed higher Ka,r values (p < 0.0001), although none reached the 2 Gy threshold.
Conclusion: Radiation exposure during TIPS creation in this high-volume center remained consistently below thresholds associated with skin injury, even in obese or complex patients.
Implications for practice: Performing TIPS in high-volume referral centers with systematic ultrasound guidance and optimized low-dose protocols can maintain radiation exposure well below harmful thresholds with respect to tissue effects, even in complex patients. These findings emphasize not only the need for structured radiation protection strategies and centralization of complex procedures, but also the active involvement of all professionals responsible for radiation safety whose expertise is crucial in dose optimization and ensuring the highest standards of patient care. LEVELS OF EVIDENCE 2B: retrospective cohort study.

