Patient Radiation Dose Assessment in Pelvic X-ray Examination in Ghana

Abstract

Protecting the gonads of children and adults is of particular importance during diagnostic imaging of the pelvis since evidence suggests that X-rays could cause direct damage to the gonad which could result in mutation. Gonad shielding during diagnostic X-ray procedures is an effective way of reducing dose to patients’ reproductive organs and reduces the risk of genetic effects in future generations. Given the potential harmful effects associated with exposure to ionizing radiation, it is important not just to provide gonad shielding, but also to measure patient doses, and reduce them where possible. The aim of this study was to provide patient dose estimates for pelvic examination being undertaken at selected diagnostic centers in Ghana as a baseline data for pelvic dose optimization in Ghana. Dose measurements were calculated on 323 patients (137 (42%) male, 186 (58%) female, ages, 38.56 yr ± 9.0; range 20–68). The Entrance Surface Dose (ESD) was determined by an indirect method, using the patient’s anatomical data and expo¬sure parameters utilized for the specific examination. The Quality Assurance Dose Database software (QADDs) developed by Integrated Radiological Services Ltd. in Liverpool, UK was used to generate the ESD values. There were variations in the technique factors used in all the centers as compared to the recommendations in the European Commission (EC) quality criteria. Eighty percent of the hospitals recorded lower ESD values below IAEA recommended diagnostic reference levels (10 mGy) and 40% of the hospitals exceeded the UK national reference value (4 mGy). The varia¬tions in the data recorded demonstrate the importance of creating awareness by the radiographic staff on quality assurance and standardization of protocols to ensure satisfactory standards and optimized radiation dose to patients and staff.