Abstract
Purpose of Study
To investigate the level of Orthopaedic Residents' knowledge of safety techniques in the procedures involving the use of C-arm.
Methods
A survey of evidence based questions regarding safety techniques in the use of C-arm was administered to 58 Orthopaedic Residents from three major tertiary hospitals.
Results
Of the 58 questionnaires administered, 42 usable questionnaires were returned (a 72.4% response rate). Only 33% of orthopaedic residents have received some form of formal training on safety techniques in the use of a C-arm. 95% of orthopaedic residents protect themselves with a lead apron in every case that that involves the use of a C- arm. 62% of residents do not know that scattered radiation is as harmful as direct radiation.
Conclusion
Most orthopaedic residents believe that they are responsible for their own safety, as well as, the safety of their patients and the theatre staff during procedures that involve the use of c-arm. A majority of orthopaedic residents however, lack the detailed knowledge of the safety techniques in the use a C-arm. This knowledge gap may lead to unnecessary exposure to ionising radiation. We therefore, propose a mandatory training on “ionising radiation and safety techniques” for orthopaedic registrars.
NO DISCLOSURES
