Knowledge and Practice of Health Professionals Working in Orthopedic Operation Theater towards Radiation Exposure and Protection: A Single Center Crosssectional Study from Pakistan

Introduction: The growing use of fluoroscopic imaging in minimally invasiveorthopedic procedures has raised concerns about radiation exposure. Despiteglobal emphasis on the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle,there is limited research on radiation safety awareness among Pakistani healthcareprofessionals. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and practices oforthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, and operating room staff regardingradiation exposure and protection in a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a 21-itemquestionnaire distributed via Google Forms and printed copies. The surveycollected socio-demographic data, assessed knowledge of radiation exposure andsafety, and evaluated adherence to protective practices. Data were analyzed usingSPSS Version 26.0, with the Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and PointBiserial Correlation applied for statistical analysis.Results: Among 103 participants, only 25 (24.27%) had received prior radiationsafety training. 44 (42.72%) participants had knowledge score >50. 17(16.50%)participants recognized the ALARA principle, with just two consistently applyingit. Lead aprons were utilized by 97 (94.17%) participants,. Thyroid shields andother protective tools were utilized by 3 (2.91%) participants.Conclusion: There is a clear gap between knowledge and implementation ofradiation safety among orthopedic operating room personnel.