VARIOUS : VR 7

STATUS OF STAFF RADIATION PROTECTION IN ORTHOPEDY IN TUNISIAN HOSPITAL 1. H KAMOUN, H THABET, L CHARFI, C CHOUCHANE, N ATIA, A HAMMOU. 2. National Center of radiation protection. Children's Hospital, Place Bab Saadoun, 1007 Tunis, Tunisia

 Orthopaedic theater personnel (OTP) including surgeons and other operating room personnel, are exposed to ionising radiation by using X-ray image intensification.  Over the past few years, the number and variety of orthopaedic surgical procedures utilizing fluoroscopic assistance have increased markedly.  As a safe dose of radiation is uncertain, it is therefore sensible to keep radiation exposure as low as possible, regardless of safety regulations. INTRODUCTION

The aims of this study are to determine OTP’s knowledge about ionizing radiation risks and the availability of radiation protection tools, to propose appropriate corrective measures. PURPOSE

MATERIALS AND METHODS  This descriptive study was performed in 4 orthopedic operating theaters equipped with a mobile Image intensifier unit in March  We have performed an orthopedic theater visit to identify the availability of radioprotective tools.  We used a questionnaire in order to identity the knowledge about ionizing radiation.  We established a global score of knowledge to classify our population.

RESULTS  82 professionals were exposed to ionizing radiation.  51 of them (77%) responded to our questionnaire.  76,5% were men and sex ratio was 0,3.  The median of the age was 30 years (26-58).

 OTP were 55% surgeons, 37% nurses and 8% superior technicians. RESULTS

 The mean of the Global score of knowledge was 10,944/20 (3,6-15,2). Global Score of OTP’s knowlege RESULTS

 The mean of the Global score of knowledge was 10,944/20 (3,6-15,2).  The Kruskal-Wallis test showed that the Global Score of knowledge increases significantly with grade.  Median was 11,98 in medical group, it was 9,67 in technician and nurses group, p= 0,0001. RESULTS

 Because of unavailability of lead aprons, they are worn by the staff in 19%.  Thyroid shields were unavailable in all cases.  All them haven’t individual dosimeter

 In the present study, the results indicate insufficiency in OTP knowledge’s and in radioprotection tools availability.  In order to minimize all unnecessary radiation, attempts should be made to increase orthopedic theater personnel’s knowledge about radiation protection and sensitization of responsible about necessity of providing radiation protection tools. CONCLUSION