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Abstract
Materials and Methods
From January 2010 to December 2010, we measured the radiation exposure of a tumor surgeon, spine surgeon, trauma surgeon, six residents, and six scrub nurses. Radiation was monitored with the use of thermoluminescent dosimeters placed on the chest under the lead apron. The annual dose of radiation exposure was compared to the maximum yearly permissible dose (20 mSv). During the study period, the trauma surgeon made a deliberate effort to minimize the radiation time and maintain a distance of 1 m from the image intensifier.
Results
The annual exposure levels were 0.04 mSv (radiation time, 34 min 50 s), 0.08 mSv (151 min 46 s), and 0.12 mSv (135 min 27 s) for the tumor surgeon, trauma surgeon, and spine surgeon, respectively. The mean exposure was 0.0146 mSv (range, 0.4~0.39 mSv) for the residents and 0.06 mSv (range, 0.04~0.13 mSv) for the scrub nurses. Overall, the annual radiation exposure was 0.2~1.95% of the maximal yearly permissible dose. Despite the longer period of radiation exposure, the trauma surgeon was exposed to a lower dose of radiation than the spine surgeon.
Figures and Tables
Fig. 1
(A~C) The thermoluminescent dorsimeter (TLD) which is placed on the chest under the lead apron, is used for the monitoring of radiation.
Fig. 2
The drawing on the skin and provisional K-wire fixations are done to minimize the missed image.
Fig. 4
In order to maintaine a safe distance (100 cm) from the image intensifier, the orthopaedic surgeon takes a step away from operating table before (A) and after (B).
Table 1
Radiation time during surgical procedures by image intensifier
External fixation is included the bone transport and deformity correction. ORIF means limited open reduction with percutaneous screw fixation. M: minute, S: second. *Minimal invasive plate osteosynthesis, †Intramedullary nailing, ‡Open reduction and internal fixation, §Minimal invasive microscopic decompression, ∥Differential nerve block, ¶Transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.
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