A Survey Analysis of Knowledge Levels of Urologists About Radiation
Safety and Fluoroscopy Use
Abstract
Purpose: To evaluate the awareness of the use of fluoroscopy in
endourological procedures, as well as the theoretical and practical
applications of preventive measures. Material and Method: Between May
2018 - April 2019, a 26-question survey prepared using Google Docs was
sent to urologists via e-mail. Personal information, radiation training
and behaviors related to radiation and fluoroscopy usage, and the use of
protective equipment were queried. Results: A total of 226 participants
fully completed and returned the email survey. Of the 226 participants
78 (34,5%) were academics, 44 (19,4%) were residents while 104
(46.1%) were experts. More than 60% of the participants stated that
they participated in the operation requiring less than five
fluoroscopy-use per week. The majority of operations requiring
fluoroscopy consisted of endourological procedures. The lead apron was
used by 93% of the participants, but the use of protective glasses and
gloves was very low (3.5%). The majority of academicians, experts and
residents did not use dosimeters (76.9%, 82,7 and 81,8%,
respectively). More than 50% of the participants did not have
literature information about the harmful effects of radiation due to the
use of fluoroscopy. The most common complaints on the day of fluoroscopy
were fatigue and headache. Conclusion: The lack of information regarding
the radiation protection measures and harmful effects of radiation are
common among urologists in Turkey. Therefore, systematic training
programs on fluoroscopy use and radiation exposure should be provided
during urology residency. Keywords: Urologist, fluoroscopy, radiation,
radiation protection