Radiation Protection in the Orthopedics Department: Insights From a Cross-Sectional Study
2024

Radiation Protection in Orthopedic Surgery

Sample size: 102 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Abanomy Ahmad

Primary Institution: King Saud University

Hypothesis

This study assesses radiation protection practices and knowledge among orthopedic surgeons in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion

The study highlights significant gaps in radiation protection knowledge and practices among orthopedic surgeons, emphasizing the need for mandatory training.

Supporting Evidence

  • Only 3.9% of surgeons received formal training in radiation protection.
  • 67.6% of respondents reported regular use of lead aprons.
  • 80.4% of participants did not use dosimeters to monitor their radiation dose.
  • 7.8% of surgeons were familiar with the ALARA principle.
  • Significant gaps in understanding safety protocols for radiation were revealed.

Takeaway

The study found that many orthopedic surgeons don't know how to protect themselves from radiation, which can make them sick. They need better training to stay safe.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study surveyed orthopedic surgeons in Saudi Arabia using an online standardized and pre-tested questionnaire.

Potential Biases

Response bias may occur as participants might overestimate or underestimate their adherence to radiation protective practices.

Limitations

The sample size of 102 surgeons may restrict generalizability, and reliance on self-reported data may introduce response bias.

Participant Demographics

{"gender":{"male":94,"female":8},"age_groups":{"25-35":59,"36-45":33,"46-55":7,">55":3},"years_of_practice":{"<5":23,"5-10":37,"11-15":22,"16-20":14,"21-25":2,">25":4}}

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.7759/cureus.75940

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