A Language for Effective Communication between Surgeons and Radiographers in Trauma Theatre

Abstract

INTRODUCTION The advent of the image intensifier has revolutionised trauma surgery since its development in 1955. The manufacturers have given names to various movements of the machine in the operating manual but it has not been popular among orthopaedic surgeons or radiographers. Lack of knowledge of names of various movements and ambiguity in command often leads to confusion between the surgeon and the radiographer regarding which way to move the image intensifier. A questionnaire-based study was conducted to assess the efficacy of communication between orthopaedic surgeons and radiographers while using the image intensifier intra-operatively. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Diagrams depicting the movements of the image intensifier were used in the questionnaire. Fifty questionnaires were given to orthopaedic surgeons and 50 to radiographers to name the various movements. RESULTS Ninety questionnaires were returned, 45 from surgeons and 45 from radiographers. Five questionnaires from surgeons and five from radiographers were returned blank. Of those responding, 97% could name the vertical movement, 68% the horizontal movement, 12% the swivel and 29% the angulation movement. None could name the orbital movement. CONCLUSIONS Even though orthopaedic surgeons do not operate the image intensifier themselves, knowledge of the movements of the image intensifier and their names can improve the efficacy of communication between surgeons and radiographers. A common language and precision in command can avoid confusion and has the potential to improve theatre time utilisation. The nomenclature of various movements of the image intensifier has been described and possible precise commands for various movements have been postulated.