Radiation in the orthopedic operating theatre

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Radiation Safety

Background:

• Fluoroscopy is frequently used in orthopedic surgery, posing potential radiation exposure risks to personnel.
• Understanding radiation levels is crucial for implementing effective safety protocols in operating theaters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify radiation exposure during orthopedic fluoroscopy.
• To demonstrate the relationship between distance and radiation dose.
• To inform staff on protective measures against ionizing radiation.

Main Methods:

• Ionizing radiation levels were measured using dosimeters in an orthopedic operating theater.
• Measurements were taken over 104 days between February 18, 2014, and June 02, 2014.
• Dosimeters were positioned at the head and foot of the operating table and at 200 cm distance.

Main Results:

• Radiation doses measured were 90.5 mrem at the table foot and 68.17 mrem at the table head.
• At 200 cm distance, doses significantly decreased to 7.5 mrem (foot) and 5.17 mrem (head).
• A clear inverse correlation between distance from the radiation source and measured radiation levels was observed.

Conclusions:

• Radiation exposure rates diminish significantly as the distance from the fluoroscopy source increases.
• Wearing lead aprons, neck protectors, and eye protection, alongside maintaining distance, is vital for reducing radiation exposure during orthopedic procedures.