Aim: To evaluate intraoperative use of the Mini C-Arm compared with standard X-ray image intensification

Method: Radiation exposure data was collected for patients undergoing orthopaedic operative procedures. Data was collected over a 3 month period using a standard Siemens Siremobil 2000 X-Ray image intensifier (175 procedures) and also from a new smaller surgeon– operated Vertec Fluoroscan X-Ray image intensifier (144 procedures). Skin entrance radiation dose was calculated for the procedures with each X-ray unit.

Results: There were sufficient numbers of wrist procedures to permit comparison of the X-ray units.

The skin entrance dose of radiation was calculated and found to be lower for all procedures with the surgeon-operated X-ray unit.

Discussion: New, small surgeon-operated X-ray image intensifiers are now available and are safer for theatre staff due to reduced X-ray beam scatter. These X-ray units remove the need for a radiographer to be present in theatre. This is also of importance as staff shortages in radiography persist.

Conclusion: Surgeon-operated X-ray image intensification is safe and convenient in the orthopaedic operating theatre without increasing radiation exposure.