Survey of terminology used for the intraoperative direction of C-arm fluoroscopy

Orthopedic surgeons depend on the intraoperative use of fluoroscopy to facilitate procedures across all subspecialties. The versatility of the C-arm fluoroscope allows acquisition of nearly any radiographic view. This versatility, however, creates the opportunity for difficulty in communication between surgeon and radiation technologist. Poor communication leads to delays, frustration and increased exposure to ionizing radiation. There is currently no standard terminology employed by surgeons and technologists with regards to direction of the fluoroscope.

The investigation consisted of a web-based survey in 2 parts. Part 1 was administered to the membership of the Canadian Orthopedic Association, part 2 to the membership of the Canadian Association of Medical Radiation Technologists. The survey consisted of open-ended or multiple-choice questions examining experience with the C-arm fluoroscope and the terminology preferred by both orthopedic surgeons and radiation technologists.

The survey revealed tremendous inconsistency in language used by orthopedic surgeons and radiation technologists. It also revealed that many radiation technologists were inexperienced in operating the fluoroscope.

Adoption of a common language has been demonstrated to increase efficiency in performing defined tasks with the fluoroscope. We offer a potential system to facilitate communication based on current terminology used among Canadian orthopedic surgeons and radiation technologists.