Evaluating X-ray absorption of nano-bismuth oxide ointment for decreasing risks associated with X-ray exposure among operating room personnel and radiology experts

During recent years, carcinogenic effects of X-ray have been proven. Todays, lead is used in many equipment such as coats, thyroid shield, and gloves for body protection against X-ray. However, these equipments have several disadvantegous including toxicity, heaviness, and inflexibility. Hence, newer methods like protective semisolid products (cream, ointment) for topical application are being replaced. Therefore, the feasibility of using an ointment containing bismuth oxide nanoparticles (Bi2O3) as a X-ray adsorbent was evaluated in this study. Methods and Materials: First, synthesis of Bi2O3 and then formulating it in the form of ointment was investigated. In this study, X-ray device and dosimeter was employed to check the X-ray absorption in different thickness of bismuth oxide nanoparticles ointment. In dosimetry test, the protective effect of the ointment containing Bi2O3 nanoparticles was evaluated significantly (P<0.05) better than control group and equal sheet lead group. Dosimetry tests showed that the bismuth oxide nanoparticles ointment and cream absorb 56% of the radiation whereas this value is 41% for lead. K absorption edge for bismuth is higher than other metals and its nanoparticles have more absorbent surface to volume ratio (S/V). It seems that due to higher atomic number and lower toxicity, Bi2O3 nanoparticles have better efficiency in X-ray absorbtion, comparing to the lead. Cream and ointment of bismuth oxide nanoparticles can be used as X-ray absorbant for different professions such as physicians, dentists, radiology experts, and operating room staff and consequently increase health and safety of these employees.