Lead apron suggestions?

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CarabinerSD

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I’m shopping for some new lead aprons as our current ones are pretty worn out. I do not like wearing the two pieces vest and skirt design (annoying to remove and put back on) and prefers the one piece design. Also the old ones are super heavy and I could use something lighter.

Any recommendations on lead apron vendors for something lightweight with good ergonomics and shielding? What’s the minimum lead equivalent I should aim for without killing my back?
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Maybe use the regular with the orthovest

www.myorthovest.com

OrthoVest

A personal protective device that removes 100% of lead apron weight from your neck, shoulders and spinal column.
www.myorthovest.com www.myorthovest.com

Still heavy but weight distribution is less stressful on the lower back.
 
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Is it consensus that two piece lead is better than one?
 
Maybe I'm the odd man out but I prefer 1 piece
 
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While we’re on the topic — any recs for lead glasses (with prescription)?
 
GorillaPanic said:
While we’re on the topic — any recs for lead glasses (with prescription)?
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I had some and then switched to the nerdy big lead glasses over my current glasses - more comfortable, less fogging and no adjustment period.
 
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Do you all sit down between cases and if so do you remove your lead?
 
I am terrible I never take my lead off all day. Anyone willing to give me a discount to come see them in a few years about my back?
 
ragnathor said:
Do you all sit down between cases and if so do you remove your lead?
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I have an in office procedure suite so I’m going back and forth between procedures and clinic patients. Constantly taking a 2 piece off and on is such a burden hence I prefer the 1 piece.
 
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I use the burlite vest from Burlington with the orthovest. The combo works well, but the stupid software they use for sizing is terrible. I had to send back the vest 3 times to get it made properly.
 
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Sorry for resurrecting the dead, but do you guys feel you need posterior/back protection for your lead, or is an elastic/open back sufficient?
 
22yis said:
Sorry for resurrecting the dead, but do you guys feel you need posterior/back protection for your lead, or is an elastic/open back sufficient?
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I spoke to the physicist who was certifying my C-arm and he said as long as we don’t turn our back to the source we don’t need lead protection for the back. Hope this helps.
 
gaseous_clay said:
I use the burlite vest from Burlington with the orthovest. The combo works well, but the stupid software they use for sizing is terrible. I had to send back the vest 3 times to get it made properly.
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yup software is trash. still waiting (seems endlessly) for my new stuff
 
Are these all pretty much the same weight, ie lightweight nowadays? I remember at one point they decided it was worth allowing in another 5% radiation to cut the weight by 40% or something...
 
Do you all have your lead checked regularly?
I just checked my "new" lead which was surprised to find mid line cracks in all 3 aprons and the one I use with multiple areas of thinning.
It was advertised as ultra light "lead free" from protech medical- ordered less than 2 years ago. I am bummed- it was nice because it was super light, but apparently I have just been wearing trash. We take good care- hanging up when not in use.
On the other hand my Bur-lite 0.5mm lead skirt and top which are almost 10 years old are still rocking with no cracks/thinning
 
Crybaby said:
Do you all have your lead checked regularly?
I just checked my "new" lead which was surprised to find mid line cracks in all 3 aprons and the one I use with multiple areas of thinning.
It was advertised as ultra light "lead free" from protech medical- ordered less than 2 years ago. I am bummed- it was nice because it was super light, but apparently I have just been wearing trash. We take good care- hanging up when not in use.
On the other hand my Bur-lite 0.5mm lead skirt and top which are almost 10 years old are still rocking with no cracks/thinning
Click to expand...
Yearly testing.
 
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po_boy said:
infabcorp.com

Revolution Vest and Skirt Lead Apron by Infab

Stylish X-ray protection with weight distribution between vest and skirt, the Revolution Vest and Skirt Lead Apron is lightweight and comfortable.
infabcorp.com infabcorp.com

Is this one recommended?

My low back has been killing me.
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Had this for 7-8 years and was pleased. The “lead” fell out the bottom of the skirt (“kilt”) so I ordered a new one. Quality is far worse on the newer one. The new ones have fake pockets. Only one pocket hidden in front chest area. The Velcro ripped the lining on the front within 6 months. Now the Velcro from the belt is chewing up the lower border of the vest.

Still fits great and doesn’t hurt my back to wear, which was the main reason I got this one in the first place. I’m just disappointed in how they have cut corners in quality over the years.
 
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Did y’all opt for the lead-free “Kiarmor”? 0.5mm?
 
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April from Clint sent me a text that they are selling their lightly used leads they had for labs. Look very nice. $495
 
What is considered best of the best, cost aside / most comfort and lightest with adequate protection?
 
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