Comparison of Exposure to Radiation During Percutaneous Transpedicular Procedures, Using Three Fluoroscopic Techniques

Abstract

Objective: To compare radiation exposure to the surgeon, patient and radiation technician during percutaneous access of the vertebral pedicle, using three different fluoroscopic imaging set up. Methods: Percutaneous access in pedicle T9-L5 of nine adult male cadavers using three different fluoroscopic set ups: standard C-arm, C-arm with L-arm, and the biplanar technique. The radiation dose exposure of the surgeon, radiation technician, and cadaver were measured using dosimeter in each procedure and in real time. Results: The radiation dose absorbed by the surgeon was higher when using the standard C-arm fluoroscopic technique than when using the C-arm with L-arm or the biplanar technique. Conclusions: The use of the C-arm with L-arm, or the biplanar fluoroscopic technique, for percutaneous access to the vertebral pedicle, reduces the radiation exposure of the surgeon compared to the standard C-arm fluoroscopic technique.