Hepatitis C virus infection: knowledge in the orthopedic community

A survey with 14 questions pertaining to the natural history, infectiveness, and diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis C viral infection was given to all practicing orthopedic surgeons in Portland, Maine. Possible responses were "true," "false," or "don't know" to the 14 statements. A question regarding any interest in learning more about the hepatitis C virus was also posed. Most (82%, 23/28) surgeons completed the questionnaire. A total of 72% of the responses were either wrong or marked "don't know"; most (83%) of the respondents wanted to know more about the infection about hepatitis C viral infection. Not only are orthopedic surgeons at risk for exposure to this virus, but also they are often the first to notify a patient of a positive result after routine hepatitis C testing of autologous predonated blood. Education programs and journal reviews should be directed toward this goal.