Radiation Exposure to the Surgeon During Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy

• DOI: 10.1097/brs.0b013e318275ca58
• Publication Date: 2012-10-01T02:52:24Z
• Authors: Yong Ahn; Chang-Ho Kim; June Ho Lee; Sang-Ho Lee; Jin-Sung Kim
• Keywords: Lead apron

In Brief Study Design. A prospective study. Objective. The purpose of this study was to determine the radiation dose which surgeons are exposed during percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD) and calculate allowable number cases per year. Summary Background Data. Transforaminal PELD is a minimally invasive technique for soft disc herniation. Minimal invasiveness can be achieved through use fluoroscopy endoscopy. surgeon unknown. Methods. occupational absorbed by 3 spinal performing 30 consecutive PELDs (33 levels) 3-month period evaluated. were performed according standard technique. exposure neck, chest, arm, both hands measured. Occupational guidelines National Council on Radiation Protection & Measurements used procedures Results. mean operation time 49.8 minutes, 2.5 minutes. No significant correlations found between time. calculated doses operated level as follows: 0.0785 mSv; 0.1718 right upper 0.0461 left ring finger, 0.7318 0.6694 mSv. protective effects lead collar apron demonstrated reduction 96.9% 94.2%, respectively. Therefore, with regard whole-body radiation, 5379 operations year using apron, whereas only 291 without apron. Moreover, 1910 within limit eyes (150 mSv), 683 (500 mSv). Conclusion. Without shielding, annually would maximum dose. Given measurable lifetime hazards surgeon, adequate equipment essential reducing PELD. performed. approximately not negligible. proper techniques mitigate exposure.