Radiation safety education in vascular surgery training
Stefano J Bordoli1, Christopher G Carsten1, David L Cull1
1Department of Surgery, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville Campus, Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center, Greenville, SC.
Journal of Vascular Surgery
|December 24, 2013
Summary
Many vascular surgery trainees lack formal radiation safety training, increasing risks from ionizing radiation. Improved education is crucial for radiation safety practices among residents.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Radiation Safety
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Endovascular procedures are increasing in vascular surgery training.
- This leads to significant exposure to ionizing radiation for trainees.
- Radiation safety knowledge and practices among trainees require examination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess radiation safety training and practices in current U.S. vascular surgery trainees.
- To identify gaps in knowledge regarding radiation safety protocols.
Main Methods:
- Anonymous survey distributed to U.S. vascular surgery trainees.
- Responses analyzed based on formal radiation safety training.
- Trainee perceptions of attending physicians' adherence to As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) strategies were evaluated.
Main Results:
- 45% of trainees had no formal radiation safety training.
- Many were unaware of policies for pregnant females, radiation safety officer contacts, and acceptable radiation levels.
- Trained residents demonstrated better knowledge and adherence to safety protocols, including wearing dosimeters.
Conclusions:
- A significant lack of formal radiation safety training exists among U.S. vascular surgery residents.
- This suggests potential deficiencies in current radiation safety education and practices.
- Trainee adherence to radiation safety measures is influenced by formal training and attending physician practices.
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