Anti-X Apron Wearing and Musculoskeletal Problems Among Healthcare Workers: A Systematic Scoping Review

Maria Grazia Lourdes Monaco, Angela Carta, Tishad Tamhid and Stefano Porru
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Maria Grazia Lourdes Monaco: Occupational Medicine Unit, University Hospital of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
Angela Carta: Occupational Medicine Unit, University Hospital of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
Tishad Tamhid: Postgraduate School of Occupational Medicine, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
Stefano Porru: Occupational Medicine Unit, University Hospital of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy

IJERPH, 2020, vol. 17, issue 16, 1-17

Abstract: Interventional radiology activities and other medical practices using ionising radiation have become increasingly prevalent. In this context, the use of anti-X aprons, in association with awkward postures and non-ergonomic working conditions, might cause the onset of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This research aims to evaluate the evidence about the correlation between wearing anti-X aprons and work-related MSDs. A systematic scoping review of articles published between 1990 and 2020 was conducted by searching the PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Twelve cross-sectional studies, conducted among interventional physicians, nurses, and technicians, were finally included. Five studies primarily investigated the association between use of anti-X aprons and MSDs, showing that a higher prevalence of disorders was not always associated with the use of protective aprons. No studies investigated the impact of anti-X aprons on fitness for work assessment, particularly in subjects with MSDs. There is no complete agreement about the correlation between anti-X apron-wearing and the occurrence of MSDs, although the possible discomfort of workers using anti-X aprons appears more evident. Further studies are needed to objectify the role of these protective devices in the genesis of MSDs and to offer specific ergonomic solutions for healthcare workers.

Keywords: anti-X apron; lead apron; musculoskeletal disorders; interventional radiology; radiation protection (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
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