Radiation Safety for Urologists

Abstract

Abstract Background and Objectives: Radiation is one of the occupational hazards urologists are exposed to during their day-to-day practice. Excessive radiation exposure is associated with multiple short- and long-term consequences. This educational video demonstrates the important measures urologists could undertake to protect patients, themselves, and other healthcare professionals from excessive radiation exposure without compromising outcomes. Methods: As Low As Reasonably Achievable principles, including minimizing time, maximizing distance, and always using shields, are demonstrated. Intraoperative tricks to minimize radiation exposure are recommended, including using the foot pedal to activate fluoroscopy by the surgeon himself/herself, using pulsed fluoroscopy, and documenting fluoroscopy time. In addition, the American Urological Association (AUA) guidelines regarding imaging modalities used for follow-up of urolithiasis are reviewed. Results: Surgeon behavior is one of the important modifiable p...