Current state of awareness and safety practices for ionising radiation risks in orthopaedic doctors in Navi Mumbai: an online survey

Background: Radiographic imaging in orthopaedic surgical centers is becoming more common, posing additional risks to the orthopaedic doctors, who become more exposed to ionising irradiation. As a result, orthopaedic surgeons must have a good understanding of radiation hazards. Despite these issues, many orthopaedic specialists do not get basic radiation safety training. A review of orthopaedic specialists' understanding, awareness, and routine radiation safety practices at an academic hospital in Navi Mumbai. Methods: After institutional ethical approval, a panel of experts created an online survey comprising multiple-choice questions, which was utilized to perform a descriptive research. The questionnaire contained several aspects, each of which assessed orthopaedic understanding, awareness, and practices. The research cohort comprised orthopaedic doctors working through our tertiary medical center and medical college. Results: According to our findings, only 82% of respondents were aware of the radiation dangers associated with fluoroscopy. The use of lead aprons, thyroid shields, goggles, and protective caps is 99%, 42%, 25%, and 25%, respectively. Despite the fact that 60% of respondents were aware of TLD badges. Only 23% of those who operate with inosing radiation use TLD badges. Approximately 61% of respondents were ignorant of intermittent fluoroscopy, and 85% utilized the C-arm tube while the device was active. Conclusions: The vast majority of orthopaedic doctors utilise fluoroscopic imagery in the operating room on a daily basis, but they lack in-depth information and awareness about the radiation security hazards connected with this imaging modality. It is consequently advised that a radiation safety training curriculum be implemented

Twelfth rib syndrome: role of intercostal blocks: case series of 10 patients

Twelfth rib syndrome (TRS) is a rare condition that causes severe pain in the loin. It is often misdiagnosed, leading to unnecessary investigations and treatments. Intercostal blocks in the 11th and 12th rib often resolve the pain for these patients. In this research paper, we aim to explore the role of intercostal block in the management of TRS based on our experience with 10 patients. Data of patients who were diagnosed with TRS were studied retrospectively from our hospital records who have been given intercostal block injection from the period of Jan 2022 to August 2023 as an audit.  Four patients underwent intercostal blocks. VAS scores were measured in follow-up for 1 and 3 months. 4 patients were lost to follow up and hence not considered in this study. The male to female ratio was 7:3. There was a statistically significant reduction in VAS score at 1 month and 3 months compared to pre-injection times. Patients who have failed conservative management for TRS can be effectively managed with intercostal block injections