Hyderabad: Medical professionals are exposed to a large quantum of radiation exposure now as image guided procedures have increased manifold increasing their risk and also that of the patients. Scatter radiation is a concern where the rays deflect from the main patient’s body to other parts.
According to statistics collected from healthcare units, it has been found that there will be an increase in the incidence of cancers amongst medical professionals due to inadequate radiation protection measures.
While protection in the form of aprons and thyroid shields are taken, it is not sufficient during surgical procedures like C-Arm or Cathlabs where the duration of radiation is high.
With more than 2,000 Cathlabs across the country and every day at least five to seven procedures being performed in each, the exposure is definitely high.
A senior doctor on condition of anonymity explained, “Exposure to high dose of radiation can produce effects such as redness of the skin, hair loss, radiation burns or acute radiation syndrome. Exposure to low dose scatter radiation over a period of time can lead to long-term effects like cancer. Those doctors and technicians carrying out radiology procedures are at maximum risk, especially those giving radiation treatments for prolonged durations.”
Mr Satyaki Banerjee of Medical Systems explained, “Those who are giving radiation treatment for a long period of time must protect themselves with radiation shields which must be placed around the equipment. Apart from aprons there is a need for eye protection, head shields and also radiation protection gloves. There is a need for designed sterile radiation absorbing drapes which have to be placed on the patients too.”
Scatter radiation has become a concern as there are patients and also healthcare professionals who are found to suffer due to improper handling of radiation equipment.
Cases of male and female infertility amongst those who have been working closely in radiation units for diagnosis and treatment have been recorded.
Another senior doctor explained, “We do not treasure our data and look at it in the manner of improvising on it. There have been accidents, negligent behaviour and it is important to address and ensure that they are not repeated. For this reason, there are continuous medical education programs held in accredited hospitals to allow for least repetition of mistakes.”
