A Report on Occupational Ionizing Radiation Exposure by an Orthopedic Surgeon in a National Health-care Setting - Clinical Case Perspective

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of the study was to have a general overview of the current understanding of occupational ionizing radiation exposure among health care workers and to explore the potential risks of such exposure to orthopedic surgeons working in national health-care setting.

Methods: The author conducted 4 months measurement of ionizing radiation exposure using body and finger dosimeter. The result used to estimate the annual occupational ionizing radiation exposure. The final results compared to previously published data with general exploration of the risk associated with such exposure through literature review.

Results: The results indicate that the current exposure is below that of the dose limit set by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and found to be similar to previously published data.

Conclusion: Health-care employees are the largest group exposed to ionizing radiation [1, 2]. The carcinogenic effect of high dose of radiation on humans is well documented [1, 2], but the long-term effect of exposure to low doses of ionizing radiation is not clear. Some published studies indicate increased risk of cancer among female orthopedic surgeon which may or may not be directly linked to ionizing radiation exposure. We should reinforce the main principles recommended by the ICRP: Justification, optimization of protection, and dose limitation.

Keywords: Ionizing radiation; healthcare; occupational exposure; orthopedic surgeon.