I just signed a form allowing my surgeon to X-ray me as needed during a spinal fusion surgery I’m going to have next week. But I’m having second thoughts. I’ve been eating very healthy including organic foods to prepare for this operation. I’m trying to limit how many toxins my body is exposed to — having an unlimited number of X-rays just seems like a bad idea. What do you think?

Eating healthy, organic whole grain foods, fruits, and vegetables is always a good idea. Studies show that good nutrition is essential for maintaining good health, as well as healing quickly during recovery after events such as trauma (including surgery).

X-rays during spinal surgery are a must in making sure the surgeon is operating on the correct spinal level and making sure everything is lined up properly. In the case of using fixation devices such as metal plates, rods, and screws, proper placement can make the difference between success and failure. Screws can be placed in the wrong place or at an incorrect angle. An X-ray will show this during the procedure so it can be corrected right away rather than finding out later requiring a second surgery.

Every effort is made to prevent problems or complications from developing and X-rays help with that as well. The fact that your surgeon wants to use X-rays during and after the procedure is a sign that you are in good hands. Of course, let your surgeon know your concerns about over exposure to radiation. Physicians are well aware of the potential hazards of accumulated doses of radiation and do not expose patients unnecessarily.