A new study, published in Spine, assessed surgeon exposure to radiation during lateral lumbar interbody fusion procedures.
Researchers used optically stimulated luminescence technology dosimeters to record radiation exposure at five anatomic locations during 18 LLIF procedures. The five locations were eye, thyroid, chest, axilla and gluteal region.
The average radiation exposure recorded at each location was:
1. Eye — 2.64 ± 2.76 mrem
2. Thyroid — 2.19 ± 2.07 mrem
3. Chest — 0.44 ± 0.49 mrem
4. Axilla — 4.20 ± 7.76 mrem
5. Gluteal — 2.31 ± 4.50 mrem
The study authors also advise surgeons to follow radiation safety guidelines. With following the guidelines, 2,700 LLIF procedures can be performed per year before exceeding occupational dose limits.
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