Risks of radiation exposure to orthopaedic surgeons

Area of Science:

• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Medical Imaging
• Radiation Safety

Background:

• Occupational radiation exposure risks for orthopaedic surgeons are not well-documented.
• Fluoroscopy use in orthopaedics reduces morbidity by decreasing operative time and invasiveness.
• The development of new fluoroscopy-dependent orthopaedic procedures is increasing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prospectively monitor cumulative radiation exposure in orthopaedic surgeons over a 6-month period.
• To assess the radiation dose associated with specific orthopaedic procedures, such as dynamic hip screw insertion.

Main Methods:

• Prospective monitoring of cumulative radiation exposure for orthopaedic surgeons.
• Experimental measurement of radiation exposure using a phantom patient during dynamic hip screw insertion.

Main Results:

• Monitored cumulative radiation exposure levels were significantly below the maximum dose limits set by European Economic Communities EURATOM directives.
• Radiation exposure during the insertion of a dynamic hip screw, using a phantom patient, was found to be minimal.

Conclusions:

• Occupational radiation exposure for orthopaedic surgeons using fluoroscopy is generally low.
• While exposure levels are below established safety limits, continued caution is advised when utilizing fluoroscopy in orthopaedic procedures.