Expanding Radiation Protection: New Garment Accessories for Breast, Axillary, and Thyroid Coverage
Radiation protection is always evolving, and at Z&Z Medical we’re committed to bringing you the latest innovations designed to keep healthcare professionals safe in the imaging environment. This September, we’re excited to highlight two brand-new accessory garments—the BAT from Burlington and the UnderShield™ from Infab—each designed to address critical areas of exposure often left unprotected by standard lead aprons.
Why These Garments Matter
Even when properly fitted, traditional lead aprons can leave the axillary region (under the arm and the upper outer quadrant of the breast) as well as the thyroid area vulnerable to scatter radiation. Recent studies have shown that orthopedic surgeons face three times the rate of breast cancer compared to the general population, and similar risks are being reported among female radiation technologists. Protecting these regions is more than an option—it’s a necessity.
The BAT from Burlington is a new radiation protection garment designed to safeguard two highly vulnerable areas at once: the breast/axillary region and the thyroid. This easy-to-wear accessory layers seamlessly with standard aprons, ensuring greater coverage without compromising comfort or mobility. By targeting these specific areas, the BAT offers an added level of reassurance to professionals who spend long hours in fluoroscopy, interventional, and surgical suites.
Key Benefits:
- Dual protection for both the breast/axillary and thyroid areas
- Lightweight, comfortable design
- Easy to wear with any standard apron
The UnderShield™ from Infab takes protection one step further with an innovative design worn underneath any vest or apron. Its overlapping wing structure uses .25 mm lead-equivalent layers that overlap to provide .5 mm protection—precisely where it’s needed most. Combined with exclusive brrr° cooling fabric, the UnderShield™ keeps wearers comfortable, dry, and protected during even the longest procedures.
Key Benefits:
- Targeted axillary protection left exposed by standard aprons
- Flexible and adjustable fit, available in sizes S–3XL
- Lightweight and low-profile—adds protection without bulk
- Cooling, moisture-wicking fabric for all-day comfort
Both the BAT and the UnderShield™ represent an important shift in radiation safety: focusing not just on broad coverage, but on closing the critical gaps that science has identified as areas of elevated risk. These accessory garments are designed to work in harmony with existing aprons, offering comprehensive coverage without compromising freedom of movement.
At Z&Z Medical, we are proud to represent these innovative solutions and make them available to professionals who deserve the very best in protection.
