Publication:

Occupational radiation exposure among orthopaedic and a need for heath promotional approach

Background In medicine, radio-diagnosis and imaging is one of the vital tools used for the diagnostic purposes. In orthopaedic surgeries the use of intraoperative fluroscopy with C-arm is no doubt a beneficial technology but it comes with the occupational hazard of radiation exposure. This study therefore evaluates the awareness and practices of orthopaedic surgeons regarding occupational radiation exposure and its risks and the association of level of awareness and practices with various factors.

Methods A cross sectional study was conducted among orthopaedic surgeons using a pre-designed, pretested, semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire, disseminated online. Questions on awareness and practices of occupational radiation exposure and its risks were asked after obtaining consent. Data was analyzed using software statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20 and a p value of <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results 150 completed forms showed that though majority (63%) of the study participants had adequate knowledge about occupational radiation exposure, the level of practices was only 12%. A statistically significant association (p<0.001) was found between years of experience and adequacy of knowledge and practices, regarding radiation exposure. Majority (91%) believed, adequate training and a health promotional approach could be beneficial.

Conclusions This study highlights the fact that occupational radiation exposure is an issue to be dealt with importance and thus the awareness and practices also needs to improve A health promotional approach with stringent rules needs to be taken to ensure adequate awareness and adequate practice among the orthopaedic surgeons.