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Occupational x-ray exposure of anaesthetists
C McGowan1, B Heaton, R N Stephenson
1Department of BioMedical Physics and BioEngineering, University of Aberdeen.
British Journal of Anaesthesia
|June 1, 1996
Summary
Radiation exposure for anaesthetists using image intensification in orthopaedic theatres is minimal. Doses measured were below detectable limits, indicating no significant occupational risk from X-ray use.
Area of Science:
- Medical Physics
- Occupational Health
- Radiology
Background:
- Anaesthetists in orthopaedic theatres may be exposed to radiation from image intensification equipment.
- Assessing occupational radiation exposure is crucial for ensuring healthcare worker safety and compliance with regulatory limits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure radiation doses received by anaesthetists during orthopaedic procedures.
- To estimate annual radiation exposure and compare it with established dose limits.
- To determine the necessity of including anaesthetists in personnel radiation monitoring programs.
Main Methods:
- Lithium fluoride thermoluminescent dosimeter chips were utilized to quantify radiation doses.
- Measurements were taken over a typical 4-week period in an orthopaedic theatre setting.
- Data were extrapolated to estimate annual occupational radiation exposure.
Main Results:
- Measured radiation doses for anaesthetists were found to be below the detectable limits of the dosimeters.
- The estimated annual doses are significantly lower than regulatory occupational dose limits.
- Even in orthopaedic theatres, which potentially use more X-rays, exposure levels were minimal.
Conclusions:
- Anaesthetists working in orthopaedic theatres face minimal risk from occupational radiation exposure during procedures involving image intensification.
- Current practices suggest that routine personnel monitoring may not be necessary for anaesthetists in these environments.
- Radiation exposure in other surgical theatres is also expected to be below detectable levels.