Introduction: Little information is available concerning the radiation exposure of anesthesiologists, and no such data have previously been collected in Iran. This prospective study was performed to determine the amount of radiation exposure of anesthesiologists for the purpose of assessing whether or not dangerous levels of radiation exposures were being reached, and to identify factors that correlate with excessive risk.
Participants and methods: The radiation exposure of all anesthesiology residents and the attending of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences during a 3-month period (from June to August 2016) was measured using a film badge with monthly readings. Physicians were divided into two groups: group 1 (the ones assigned to ORs with radiation exposure), and group 2 (the ones assigned to ORs with no or minimal radiation exposure).
Results: A total number of 10744 procedures were performed in 3 major university hospitals including 353 cases of pediatric angiography, 251 cases of percutaneous nephrolithotomy, 43 cases of chronic pain palliation and 672 cases of orthopedic surgeries with C-arm application. In all 3 months, there were statistically significant differences in the amount of radiation exposure between the two groups.
Conclusion: Anesthesiologists working in the cardiac catheterization laboratory, pain treatment service, orthopedic and urologic ORs are exposed to statistically significantly higher radiation levels compared to their colleagues in other ORs. The radiation exposure to anesthesiologists can rise to high levels; therefore, they should get proper teaching, shielding and periodic evaluations.
Keywords: Exposure; Ionizing; Radiation; Anesthesiologist.