Radiation exposure to the surgeon during axillary sentinel lymph node biopsy
Date
2014-04-25
Authors
Harran, Nadine
Journal Title
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Abstract
Introduction
To measure the radiation exposure to the surgeon during axillary sentinel lymph node
biopsy using the radioactive isotope technetium-99m.
Method
A prospective analysis of 36 patients undergoing axillary sentinel lymph node biopsy using
technetium-99m, between 15th January 2013 to the 20th February 2013..
Results
The exposure to the surgeon during axillary sentinel lymph node dissection was measured in
36 patients by placing a thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) on the surgeon’s finger. The
TLDs recorded the total radiation exposure to the surgeon.
The recommended occupational dose limit for non radiation workers extremity exposure is less than 500 μSv. The analysed and extrapolated data showed an average exposure dose
to the surgeon per patient of 2.7 μSv.
Conclusion
One surgeon would need to perform more than 85 such procedures per year in order to
exceed the advised annual extremity dose limit. The data also suggests that regular
measurements of radiation exposure and radiation protective measures need not be
undertaken in theatres where surgeons are working with radioactive isotope for axillary
sentinel lymph node biopsies.