Radiation in the orthopedic operating theatre

The aim of the study was to determine the amount of radiation exposure in the orthopedic operating theater, to show that the radiation dose was decreased with distance from the tube, and to inform personnel about protective measures.

Ionised radiation was measured in the orthopedic operating theater where fluoroscopy was used between 18 February 2014 and 02 June 2014. Four dosimeters were placed at the head and foot of the operating table and at 200 cm from those areas at a height of 60 cm vertical to the floor.

At the end of 104 days, the total values were determined as 90.5 mrem at the foot of the table, 68.17 mrem at the head of the table, 7.5 mrem at 200 cm from the foot of the table, and 5.17 mrem at 200 cm from the head of the table. A significant decrease was observed in the values determined at a distance from the radiation source.

The rate of radiation determined in the dosimeters decreased when distance from the radiation source increased. During the use of fluoroscopy in orthopedic surgery, the wearing of lead aprons, neck protectors, and glasses, in addition to maintaining a distance from the tube, will reduce the radiation exposure of individuals.