A study by urologists at Loma Linda University School of Medicine has revealed effective radiation reduction techniques for pregnant surgeons during percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL). The research, led by Dr. Duane Baldwin, found that using low-dose fluoroscopy, reduced pulse frequency, and enhanced lead shielding can minimize radiation exposure significantly. A pregnant surgeon employing these protective measures could conduct around 11,000 PCNLs before reaching the annual radiation exposure limit, compared to just 12 without protection. The findings aim to encourage more women to consider specialties like endourology, which have traditionally had low female representation. The study involved contributions from medical residents and highlights a growing trend of women entering the urology field, with 42% of applicants in the 2025 residency match being female.
Fri, 09 May 2025 11:00:00 GMT | PRWeb