Answer to Question #6071 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

I am a 30-year-old orthopedic resident. I am doing the residency outside the United States and, unfortunately, we do not have a radiation measuring device. I wear a lead apron for all the cases when an x ray will be taken. I am exposed to x rays from a portable x-ray machine as well as a fluoroscopic machine. I am trying to get pregnant and I would like to know if I should avoid the procedures with x-ray exposure or if the lead apron is enough protection during the pregnancy. If you recommend avoiding exposure I would appreciate it if you can tell me from which moment I should try to avoid it, that is, number of days from my last cycle.

Thank you for the question. From what I know of fluoroscopic units and portable x-ray machines used in the United States, the lead apron will provide the protection you need now and, when you become pregnant, to continue working with them.

There are a couple of other actions you can take as well to keep exposure low. During the portable x rays, stand back behind the portable device—that provides distance and some extra shielding. During fluoroscopic procedures, stepping an additional foot away from where the x-ray beam is entering the patient will reduce your exposure by a factor of 10. It doesn't mean you have to step away from the table, although that would work; you can simply step an extra foot toward the head or foot of the table and still be beside the patient.

I also think you should double check to be sure your organization absolutely will not give you a radiation measuring device. Maybe it would, but no one has pushed the issue.

Kelly Classic
Certified Medical Health Physicist