Risks of radiation exposure to orthopaedic surgeons

The risks of occupational radiation exposure for orthopaedic surgeons has not been well documented. The use of fluoroscopy in orthopaedics has reduced morbidity and by reducing operative time and by reducing the invasiveness of procedures. Increasingly procedures requiring the use of fluoroscopy are being developed. In a prospective study we have monitored cumulative radiation exposure over a 6-month period. The exposure levels are well below the maximum dose limits for ionizing radiation as recommended by European Economic Communities EURATOM directives. Experimentally using a phantom patient it was shown that the exposure to ionizing radiation during the insertion of a dynamic hip screw was minimal. Despite the low level of exposure care should be exercised when using fluoroscopy.