Radiation Exposure in Orthopaedics

»The damaging effects to human tissue caused by radiation exposure have been documented since the first reports regarding use of radiographs in the late nineteenth century.»Orthopaedic surgeons and residents often are undereducated about the risks associated with radiation exposure and the recommended safety precautions to help mitigate these potential risks.»Orthopaedic surgeons need to adopt the ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) principle: whenever possible, all available precautions should be taken to keep all members of the operating room safe from radiation exposure while emphasizing the best appropriate care for patients.»An emphasis on radiation safety and protection should be universally incorporated into graduate medical education.