Risks of Excessive Intraoperative Radiation

Fluoroscopy is a well-accepted intraoperative imaging modality that has been applied to numerous spinal procedures such as therapeutic injections, vertebral augmentation, and the placement of instrumentation. However, the quantities of radiation that are generated during these operations are not insignificant and these doses may predispose these individuals to the development of a variety of potentially devastating complications. The goals of this review are to provide an overview of contemporary fluoroscopic techniques, present the potential risks of excessive radiation exposure, and discuss the safety limits that have been established for the protection of the patient and operating room personnel.