Radiation dose to surgeons in theatre

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Occupational Health
• Surgical Safety

Background:

• Minimizing radiation exposure is crucial for healthcare professionals.
• Fluoroscopy-guided procedures pose radiation risks to surgical teams.
• Understanding dose distribution is key to effective radiation protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess radiation doses received by surgeons during fluoroscopic procedures.
• To evaluate the impact of radiation limits in surgical settings.
• To investigate the effectiveness of protective measures.

Main Methods:

• Thermoluminescent dosimeters were used to measure radiation dose.
• Doses were recorded for neurosurgeons, gastroenterologists, and orthopaedic surgeons.
• Measurements were taken during procedures for back pain, ERCP, and orthopaedic operations.

Main Results:

• Radiation doses to neurosurgeons' hands exceeded annual occupational limits during back pain procedures with the X-ray tube positioned above the table.
• Adjusting C-arm orientation significantly impacted radiation levels.
• Lead shielding proved effective in reducing radiation exposure.

Conclusions:

• Protocols must be continuously revised to adhere to the as-low-as-reasonably-achievable (ALARA) principle.
• Optimizing C-arm and image intensifier positioning minimizes radiation risk.
• Mandatory use of 0.35 mm lead equivalence full-body protection during fluoroscopy is essential.