Availability, utilization patterns, and challenges of intraoperative C-arm fluoroscopy in orthopedic surgeries: a survey of orthopedic surgeons in Nigeria

While C-arm availability is relatively high in federal Nigerian institutions, consistent utilization remains low due to technical failure and personnel shortages. The high rate of altered surgical plans (77.9%) underscores a critical functional gap that compromises orthopedic standards. Policy interventions must prioritize equipment maintenance frameworks and specialized staff training over mere procurement to bridge the disparity between availability and effective intraoperative use.