title: Orthopedic surgeons' knowledge regarding risk of radiation exposition: a survey analysis.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The purpose of this study is to evaluate the knowledge levels of orthopedic surgeons working in Turkey about the uses and possible risks of fluoroscopy and assess methods for preventing radiation damage.
  
  
  METHODS
  A questionnaire with a total of 12 questions was sent to 1121 orthopedic surgeons working in Turkey. The questionnaire evaluated participants' knowledge about the uses and risks of fluoroscopy and methods for preventing damage. One thousand and twenty-four orthopedic surgeons were found to be suitable for inclusion in the study. The effects of fluoroscopy on patients were not assessed in our study.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The data obtained were statistically evaluated. Of the surveyed surgeons, 313 (30%) had used fluoroscopy in over 50% of their operations. The average number of fluoroscopy shots per case was 54.5. A lead apron was the most commonly used (88%) protection from the harmful effects of radiation. Fluoroscopy shots were performed with the help of operating room personnel (86%). A dosimeter was used 5% of the time.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  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.
authors.affiliation: Bezmi-Alem University, Orthopedics and Traumatology, Istanbul, Turkey.
authors.forename: Nejat
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Tunçer
authors.affiliation: Medipol University, Orthopedics and Traumatology, Istanbul, Turkey.
authors.forename: Ersin
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Kuyucu
authors.affiliation: Bezmi-Alem University, Orthopedics and Traumatology, Istanbul, Turkey.
authors.forename: Şafak
authors.initials: Ş
authors.lastname: Sayar
authors.affiliation: Istanbul University, Orthopedics and Traumatology, Istanbul, Turkey.
authors.forename: Gökhan
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Polat
authors.affiliation: Bakırköy Sadi Konuk Education and Training Hospital, Radiology Department, Istanbul, Turkey.
authors.forename: İrem
authors.initials: İ
authors.lastname: Erdil
authors.affiliation: Bezmi-Alem University, Orthopedics and Traumatology, Istanbul, Turkey.
authors.forename: İbrahim
authors.initials: İ
authors.lastname: Tuncay