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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
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A Mobile Outside-in Technique of Transforaminal Lumbar Endoscopy for Lumbar Disc Herniations
Published on: August 7, 2018
Radiation exposure to the spinal interventionalist performing lumbar discography
Kenneth P Botwin1, Glenn S Fuoco, Francisco M Torres
1Florida Spine Institute, 2250 Drew Street, Clearwater, FL 33765, USA. contactus@floridaspineinstitute.com
Pain Physician
|August 2, 2006
Summary
Radiation exposure during lumbar discography for spinal interventionalists is well within safety limits. Monitoring using dosimetry badges showed minimal radiation levels, even at the L5/S1 level.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Interventional Spine Procedures
Background:
- Lumbar discography is a diagnostic procedure for low back pain.
- Assessing radiation exposure to healthcare professionals is crucial for safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify radiation exposure to spinal interventionalists during lumbar discography.
- To determine if exposure levels are within established safety limits.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving four interventionalists and 106 lumbar discograms.
- Dosimetry badges were placed on the ring finger, glasses, and lead apron.
- Radiation exposure was measured using multiple badges per procedure.
Main Results:
- Mean fluoroscopy time was 57.24 seconds per procedure.
- Radiation exposure varied by badge location, with the ring badge showing the highest levels.
- Higher radiation exposure was noted at the L5/S1 level compared to L4/5 and L3/4.
Conclusions:
- Radiation exposure to spinal interventionalists during lumbar discography is within acceptable safety limits.
- The study provides valuable data on occupational radiation doses in interventional spine procedures.
