Hazards of Ionizing Radiation and its Impact on Spine Surgery

Background Spine surgery relies heavily on imaging, with radiography-based devices being the major operating room imaging modality. Radiation exposure is an occupational risk historically recognized shortly after the discovery of radiation itself. Exposure of both patients and operating room staff is of increasing concern as the knowledge regarding the hazards of radiation is steadily accumulating. Methods We conducted a literature review of the history of radiation exposure limits and updates on current studies showing the risks of low-dose exposures. Results Multiple studies reporting on radiation exposure risk and methods to reduce exposure risks are discussed. Conclusion We discuss the methods to reduce operating room staff exposure to the minimal amount, thus reducing occupational risks. We recognize that increasing awareness to radiation exposure hazards and promoting the knowledge of methods to reduce exposure of surgeons, nurses, and technicians could result in a reduction of exposure to radiation.