Reducing Radiation Risk in Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery

Fluoroscopy is considered indispensible during contemporary orthopaedic trauma surgery. However, there is increasing concern regarding occupational safety in the operating room (OR). During the course of a career, the orthopaedic surgeon and OR staff could be exposed to potentially dangerous levels of radiation. This exposure can cause substantial cytogenetic and chromosomal damage, potentially increasing cancer risk. The literature does not clearly identify a safe threshold for radiation exposure. Even relatively small doses should be considered dangerous over the long-term. Therefore, it is accepted that annual exposure should be kept to an absolute minimum. Established protective measures include observance of safe working distance from the radiation source and the routine use of protective garments. In addition, promising computerized technologies may support improved surgical precision while significantly reducing dependence on intraoperative fluoroscopy.