Reduction of radiation exposure to the examiner during nerve root block

Abstract

Long-term exposure to radiation can lead to gene mutations and increase the risk of malignant neoplasms. Spine surgeons have to perform various radiographic procedures. Selective nerve root block is the essential radiographic procedure used by spine surgeons to diagnose the specific source of nerve root pain, and provide therapeutic relief of leg pain. It is impossible for the spine surgeon to overlook the radiation exposure throughout his entire career. However, there has been no detailed report on the actual radiation exposure doses of spine surgeons. Spine surgeons should make efforts to reduce radiation exposure during radiographic procedures.