@article{whittaker2014thyroid,
  title = {Thyroid Shield Wear in Orthopaedic Surgery: An Audit of Practice},
  author = {Megan Whittaker and Radwane Faroug and Jeremy Jenkins},
  year = 2014,
  url = {https://ibimapublishing.com/articles/RADI/2014/541546/},
  journal = {Journal of Radiology Research and Practice},
  volume = 2014 (2014),
  pages = 8,
  doi = 10.5171/2014.541546,
  abstract = {Operating room professionals are potentially exposing themselves to radiation hazards by not adhering to local or International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) best practice guidelines. Rapidly dividing tissues such as those of the thyroid are most susceptible to radiation. 20 orthopaedic trauma cases requiring use of mobile ionising radiation imaging were prospectively audited over one month period. Data were collected with reference to local radiation protection guidelines.  Our data revealed poor guideline compliance. Of particular, concern was the observation that in none of the 20 cases did any of the theatre staff wear a thyroid shield. Theatre staff also showed lack of awareness in the correct wear of lead gowns. Over the long term, a dose to the thyroid of 65µSv per procedure may increase the risk of cancer13. Previous work has shown this dose to be routinely exceeded during standard orthopaedic procedures such as dynamic hip screws14. The IAEA recommends the wearing of 0.35mm lead gowns and thyroid protection for orthopaedic surgeons during procedures requiring the use of an image intensifier. This audit points to a lack of knowledge and education amongst theatre professionals about the established link between radiation exposure and cancer. Radiation protection education and the wearing of personal protective equipment, particularly thyroid shields, should be encouraged.},
  keywords = {X-ray; radiation; thyroid carcinoma; radiation safety.},
  note = Article ID: 541546
}