Radiation protection in percutaneous renal surgery.

Two British centres have published the radiation doses received during percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). Their results were disparate. This study was performed to establish the likely exposure of the eyes and fingers of an experienced urological surgeon who creates the track into the kidney and also performs the endoscopic operation. In addition, some radioprotective gloves were evaluated. Provided that specific precautions, including a judicious use of screening, are taken, the current dose limits are unlikely to be exceeded. However, a 30% reduction in the dose limits is probable. Wearing routine radiation badges under a lead apron is an inadequate method of monitoring exposure: urologists should press for more active assistance from radiation protection officers in the monitoring of procedures in theatre and the use of ultrasound should be encouraged.