Radiation dosage from use of the image intensifier in orthopaedic surgery

The image intensifier is now commonly used in orthopaedic surgery for intraoperative assessment of fracture reduction and implant placement, especially with the increasing trend toward use of closed nailing devices. We conducted a study using lithium fluoride chips to measure the radiation dosage to the surgeon and the operating theatre personnel. Over a 6-month period we measured the cumulative radiation dosage over the eyes (0.83mSv), thyroid (with shield 0.51mSv, without 0.79mSv), waist (with apron 0.48mSv, without 0.86mSv), hands (right 0.7mSv, left 0.14mSv) and feet (0.62 mSv). These values were well within the ICRP safety guidelines. The use of protective lead shielding was effective in reducing radiation dosage to operators. A survey of the operating theatre area using a radiation counter showed that radiation scatter to OT personnel was low. This study hopes to allay the fears that use of the image intensifier is hazardous to OT personnel.