Radiation exposure in theatre and associated risks

A short life working group (Isobel Pilkington, Hannah Sevenoaks, Charlotte Lewis and Lynn Hutchings) has been established to better understand the risks associated with radiation and breast cancer in female orthopaedic surgeons. This has involved work on identifying and understanding the risks and ways of providing better protection.

This work is ongoing. These pages are intended to provide information for surgeons and will be updated as work develops.

We wish to thank Emily James, Radiation Protection Supervisor at King’s College Hospitals for their expertise and advice while preparing this guidance.

Introduction

Ionising radiation is commonly used in orthopaedic surgery and exposure is higher in certain sub-specialities including spinal surgery and trauma.

All surgeons should be aware of safe practice guidelines including their own personal risks, the risks to other members of the theatre team, and the measures that can be taken to mitigate exposure and thus minimise risk.

Formal instruction in radiation safety is not currently a mandatory part of orthopaedic training.

Occupational radiation exposure risk in orthopaedics

Occupational dose limits for radiation exposure are set by the International Commission on Radiation Protection. Current recommended overall limits are: 20mSv/year or 100mSv in 5 years with no 1 year > 50mSv.