Radiation Exposure in the Orthopaedic Surgeon: Guidelines, Impact, and Reduction Techniques

Exposure to ionizing radiation is a common occupational hazard for the orthopaedic surgeon, ubiquitous among subspecialities. There are known detrimental effects of radiation exposure including cataracts and increased cancer risk. It is imperative for both practicing orthopaedic surgeons and trainees to recognize that these risks exist and to understand what effect our occupational exposure can have over the length of a career. The purpose of this review is to highlight current recommendations and guidelines regarding ionizing radiation dose exposure, summarize the available literature specifically evaluating the effect of radiation exposure among orthopaedic surgeons, and to provide readers with strategies to mitigate radiation exposure and subsequent harmful sequelae.