Behaviour and knowledge skill levels of orthopedic surgeons about radiation safety and fluoroscopy use: A survey analysis

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the behaviour and knowledge skill levels of Turkish orthopedic surgeons about fluoroscopy usage and radiation safety. Methods The questionnaire, consisting of nineteen questions, was sent to orthopaedic surgeons and requested by a total of 323 surgeons online. The questions were about personal information, training and behaviours related to radiation and fluoroscopy usage, and the use of protective equipment. Results A total of 277 individuals completed the questionnaire. The answers of 180 surgeons whose working duration was more than 1 year and also who participated in at least one fluoroscopy requiring operation per week, were analysed. 22 (12%) participants answered that they were trained on fluoroscopy usage. Sixty people (33.3%) reported that they did not use any protective equipment regularly. The most commonly used protection methods were lead aprons 123 (68.3%). Thyroid protectors were used by 92 participants (52.1%). There was no significant difference between the groups when comparing the use of protective equipment according to the academic title. Only 19 (10.6%) of the surgeons noted that they used dosimeter regularly, and 15 (83.3%) of them reported that they controlled their dosimeters. Conclusion In this study, Orthopedic surgeons were found not to be adequately trained about use and risks of fluoroscopy and also not to be equipped about methods for preventing radiation damage. Level of Evidence Level IV, Diagnostic Study.