Attitudes and practices of orthopedic surgeons when using fluoroscopy in the operating room

Introduction: The aim of this study is to assess the practices and knowledge levels of Moroccan orthopedic surgeons on the possible uses and risks of fluoroscopy and to evaluate methods for preventing radiation damage in the operating room. Methods: A questionnaire with a total of 16 questions was sent by courier to 180 Moroccan orthopedic surgeons and orthopedic resident physicians practicing in Morocco. The questionnaire assessed participants' knowledge of the uses and risks of fluoroscopy and methods of preventing harm. The effects of fluoroscopy on patients were not evaluated in our study. Results: The data obtained were statistically evaluated. Of the surgeons surveyed 53.3% were medical specialists, 29.4% were resident doctors and 17.2% were professors. The number of people with more than ten years of experience was 48.9%, only 6.1% of participants had less than one year of experience. 61.1% of surgeons used fluoroscopy between 2 to 5 times per week, almost 8% of participants used the image intensifier more than 10 times per week. Among the surgeons surveyed, 87.2% had never received training on the principles of using fluoroscopy. Dosimeters were not used by 95% of the surgeons surveyed. Conclusion: According to the survey results, the need for fluoroscopy was very high in orthopedic surgery. However, orthopedic surgeons have inadequate knowledge about the uses and risks of fluoroscopy and methods for preventing damage. Therefore, we believe that training on this topic should be provided to all orthopedic surgeons.