Patient radiation exposure from intraoperative computed tomography in spinal surgery

Intraoperative CT imaging is becoming increasingly used, but often little attention is paid to the underlying radiation exposure to the patient. This work showed that the dosimetrically assessed radiation exposure for cervical and lumbar 3D scans with an intraoperative CT is considerably higher than with a 3D C-arm. Therefore, proper selection of the intraoperative 3D imaging system is essential, and further technological developments and dose-saving protocols are warranted to further reduce patient radiation exposure. (C) 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Intraoperative CT imaging results in higher radiation exposure for patients compared to 3D C-arm, highlighting the need for proper system selection and dose-saving protocols.