EVALUATION OF THYROID SHIELDS FOR REDUCTION OF RADIATION EXPOSURE TO ORTHOPEDIC SURGEONS

Background: A perceived increase in the incidence of thyroid carcinoma in orthopaedic surgeons prompted an assessment of the use and value o f thyroid shields in the operating theatre. Methods: The radiation exp osure to the thyroid area of 19 orthopaedic trainees was measured over a 3-month period, while they were operating. The results were correla ted with thyroid function tests and the number of emergency operative cases performed. Results: Thirteen trainees received radiation exposur e within the guidelines set for the general population. Two trainees r eceived exposure above this but within the guidelines set for occupati onal exposure. A thyroid shield reduced radiation exposure of the neck in one trainee by a factor of 13. The availability and usage of thyro id shields was low: only seven out of 13 trainees used shields. Conclu sions: A thyroid shield should be worn by orthopaedic surgeons if radi ation is used during the operative procedure.