In plain language
Across six surveys of 2209 orthopaedic surgeons, 89% reported always wearing a lead gown, but only 47% wore thyroid protection and 20% had any radiation safety training. Knowledge appeared low, though it was not clearly linked to protective practice.
At a glance
- Type of study
- Narrative review
- Who was studied
- Orthopedic surgeons
- Size
- n = 6 studies
- Summary based on
- the abstract
What it found
Most orthopaedic surgeons across the included surveys always wore a lead gown.
Key figures: 1981 participants (89 %)
Fewer than half wore thyroid protection.
Key figures: 1052 participants (47 %)
Only about a fifth had received any form of radiation safety training.
Key figures: 449 participants (20 %)
Knowledge of ALARP principles appeared low.
No clear link was shown between compliance with protective methods and knowledge of the risks.
Limits to keep in mind
A narrative review of only six self-report survey studies found through a keyword search of three databases, with varied questions and participant experience. No measured doses or health outcomes, and countries and study quality are not described in the abstract.
Related research summaries
- Radiation in the Orthopedic Operating Room: What We Know, What We Do, and What Needs Attention (2025, Narrative review)
- Radiation safety awareness and practices amongst orthopaedic surgeons in Scotland (2022, Cross-sectional survey)
- Occupational hazard of fluoroscopy: An invisible threat to orthopedic surgeons (2021, Cross-sectional survey)
- Radiation exposure of eyes, thyroid gland and hands in orthopaedic staff: a systematic review (2012, Systematic review)
- AST Standards for Ionizing Radiation Exposure (Guideline or consensus statement)
How this summary was made
ORSIF prepared this summary with AI assistance from the abstract of the paper. A program then checked that the passage supporting each finding appears word for word in that source. A person has not yet reviewed each summary, so read the original before relying on a number. ORSIF summarizes research and does not endorse any product or company. Report a problem with this summary.
Prepared November 3, 2026.