Use Of X-ray Equipment Research Articles

Industrial Radiography Testing & Technique Safety for Human Body

The use of Industrial Radiography for examining the quality of Weld joints is very popular worldwide. In India, many welding activities like construction and laying the huge pipelines for gas and water transportation and distribution as well construction of storage tanks are performed. The objects are working under high pressure and therefore, it is important to produce the weld beads with high quality. Industrial radiography uses ionizing radiation to view objects in a way that cannot be seen otherwise. The method has grown out of engineering, and is a major element of non-destructive testing (NDT) to inspect materials for hidden flaws. The radiation caused by these facilities is very dangerous however, with the use of new technologies and proper protection, risks of injury and death associated with radiation can be greatly reduced. Use or radiation sources are associated with a certain amount of radiation hazard. With proper card, this can be minimized. Radiation hazards may be broadly classified as external hazards an internal hazard. External hazards occur when the source of radiation is outside the body and internal hazards arise when the source for radiation gets into the human system. Hazard evaluation is necessary in order to adopt suitable measures to control radiation exposure. The problem of internal hazard does not arise in the use of X-ray equipment. It is considerably easy to estimate the external radiation hazard and there are a number of devices suitable for this purpose.

First implementation of quality control procedures on selected X-ray machines in South of Benin

Abstract Introduction: The use of X-ray equipment for medical diagnostic radiography procedures has increased due to advances and complexity of radiological procedures. Achieving good image quality while keeping exposure of workers, public and patient exposure to an acceptable level has become a prerequisite for the radiology department in order to comply with best international practices. The aim of this study was to undertake quality control measurement of seven (7) diagnostic radiography equipment in the south of Benin, the first of its kind. Material and methods: Multifunction detector (Piranha) and beam alignment test tool were used to perform quality control tests on seven (7) X-ray units. The method used as well as the interpretation of the results was based on the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM), United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Healing Arts Radiation Protection (HARP), Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM), International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Canadian Safety code 35 (S.C 35) recommendations. Results: The quality control results showed that all X-ray equipment investigated were within standard limits for accuracy of exposure time below 10 ms; reproducibility of kVp, exposure time and dose output; specific dose-kVp2 linearity; and specific dose-mAs linearity. Five (5) out of seven (7) diagnostic X-ray machines passed quality control tests such as X-ray beam alignment, exposure time above 10 ms and kVp accuracy. One (1) X-ray machine failed the quality control test of beam filtration at 70 kVp and above. Conclusions: The findings of this study have provided baseline data for other radiology departments to embark on similar QA/QC activities, and also explore options for optimization of patient dose. However, there is a need to extend the study to cover more diagnostic X-ray machines throughout the country. It is anticipated that this would ultimately assist in improving radiation protection and safety during medical diagnostic radiological procedures.

WEO Newsletter.

WEO Newsletter.

Topical issues of the provision of the radiation safety for dental X-ray examinations

As a part of administrative reform and “regulatory guillotine” in Russia in 2020-2021, several significant changes in the governmental regulation of dental care have occurred: implementation of new version of Order of provision of dental care and infrastructure of governmental dental facilities; approval of Rules of carrying of X-ray examinations; development of changes in the sanitary-epidemiological requirements to medical facilities. Meanwhile, the requirements on the radiation safety in the medical facilities remained the same. The lack of coordination during the development of new documents between the Ministry of Healthcare and Rospotrebnadzor resulted in preservation of the existing problems with the use of X-ray equipment in dentistry (for example, related to the allocation of dental X-ray units in residual and public buildings) and appearance of new problems (for example, removal of a requirement for the license in radiology for dentists). The study is focused on the analysis of the issues of regulation of the provision of radiation safety for dental care of public of the Russian Federation. It includes a review of the acting regulatory documents of the Ministry of Healthcare and Rospotrebnadzor, regulating the allocation of dental X-ray units and provision of dental X-ray examinations, with subsequent identification of the major issues and problems. The results of the study indicate that changes in the regulatory documents of the Ministry of Healthcare implemented in 2020-2021 contradict the acting requirements on radiation safety. It is necessary to further improve the legislative base regulating the dental care: harmonization of the acting requirements on the equipment of the dental rooms, orders and standards of dental care, training of staff. The harmonized base should result in a provision of qualitative dental care and radiation safety.

Public Health England (PHE) and Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK) (FGDP(UK)) guidance notes for dental practitioners on the safe use of X-ray equipment 2020: an update for the dental team

PHE and FGDP(UK) co-published Guidance Notes for Dental Practitioners on the Safe Use of X-ray Equipment in 2020 to encompass all relevant information to safely use and maintain radiographic equipment by dental practitioners. This guidance supersedes the first edition, previously published in 2001 by the Department of Health, and there are a number of notable changes that should be highlighted to the dental team. The document is freely available and accessible on the FGDP(UK) website and should be an essential tool to ensure the safety of the dental team, patients and the public. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Members of the dental team must acknowledge the updated guidance notes and look to incorporate these changes into their working routine to ensure good clinical practice.

Establishing local diagnostic reference levels for pediatric percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography interventions and optimizing the routine practice.

Liver-transplanted, immunosuppressed pediatric patients undergoing repeated percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography (PTC) require optimized exposure to ionizing radiation. To establish local diagnostic reference levels (DRL) for pediatric PTC and investigate the routine use of X-ray equipment. The study retrospectively analyzed data collected between October 2016 and June 2018 from a single center performing PTC. We collected exposure parameters including kerma area product (PKA), air kerma at patient entrance reference point (Ka,r) and fluoroscopy time via a dose archiving and communication system. Local diagnostic reference levels were derived as the 50th percentile of the distributions while considering published recommended weight groups. We investigated exposure variability with procedure complexity and with technical parameters recovered from the radiation dose structured report. The analysis included 162 PTC procedures performed in 64 children: 58% male, average age 6years (range 39days to 16years) and weight 24kg (range 3-60kg). Local DRLs for weight groups 0-5kg, 5-15kg, 15-30kg, 30-50kg and 50-80kg were, respectively, 6cGy.cm2, 22cGy.cm2, 68cGy.cm2, 107cGy.cm2 and 179cGy.cm2 in PKA. Local DRLs per weight group were also established for intermediate and complex procedures. Radiation dose structured report analysis highlighted good local practice with efficient collimation, low fluoroscopy pulse rate, no magnification and limited use of radiographic acquisitions. Meanwhile, table and detector positioning and tube projection could still be optimized. PKA correlated significantly with the number of acquisitions and tube-to-table distance. We established local DRLs for children undergoing PTC.

Quality Analysis of Periapical Radiographs Taken by Dental Assistants

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the quality of intraoral periapical radiographs (IOPA) taken by dental assistants in the department of operative dentistry.METHODOLOGY: The study design was cross-sectional descriptive type, non-probability convenient sampling technique was used to achieve the calculated sample size. A total of 100 periapical radiographs were collected for evaluation from department of operative dentistry at Hamdard University Dental Hospital, Karachi. Pre, intra and post-operative radiographs were evaluated taken during endodontic therapy. National Radiological Protection Board recommended three point quality scale was used to analyze the IOPA radiographs into excellent, acceptable or unacceptable. The targets were set according to the “Guidance Notes for Dental Practitioners on the Safe Use of X-ray Equipment” recommendations.RESULTS: A total 100 radiographs were evaluated, 32% were classified as excellent, 45% diagnostically acceptable and 23% of the radiographs diagnostically unacceptable. Rejection rate analysis showed that incorrect film positioning was the most frequent fault resulting in missing or obscured coronal/apical area being the cause in 50% cases. CONCLUSION: It has been concluded that frequent quality assessment and monitoring of dental team and their training in dental radiography would help in achieving gold standards. Furthermore, following standard guidelines increase the quality of the radiographs and enhance safety practices.

Hand-held X-ray device: A review

This is an era of digital revolution where the world is shifting from analogue to digital electronics. This revolution has led to the invention miniaturization of devices and one such invention is hand-held X-ray devices. With the introduction of new technology in dental radiology, there is a need to change or update old guidelines that many states use to regulate the use of ionizing radiation. Currently, there are voluntary guidelines promulgated by the NCRP for dental radiation protection. Many states use the Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors Suggested State Regulations for the Control of Radiation to regulate the use of X-ray equipment. Hand-held portable X-ray devices are increasingly used for intraoral radiography. This development introduced new challenges to operator and patient safety, for which new or revised risk assessments must be made and acted upon prior to use.

Streamlining air import operations by trade facilitation measures

Global operations are subject to considerable uncertainties. Due to the Trade Facilitation Agreement that became effective in February 2017, the study of measures to streamline customs controls is urgent. This study aims to assess the impact of trade facilitation measures on import flows. An experimental study was performed in the largest cargo airport in South America through discrete-event simulation and design of experiments. Operation impacts of three trade facilitation measures are assessed on import flow by air. We shed light in the following trade facilitation measures: the use of X-ray equipment for physical inspection; increase of the number of qualified companies in the trade facilitation program; performance targets for customs officials. All trade facilitation measures used indicated potential to provide more predictability, cost savings, time reduction, and increase in security in international supply chain.

Evaluation of equivalent and effective dose by KAP for patient and orthopedic surgeon in vertebral compression fracture surgery

Clinical scenarios were virtually modeled to estimate both the equivalent and effective doses normalized by KAP (Kerma Area Product) to vertebra compression fracture surgery in patient and surgeon. This surgery is known as kyphoplasty and involves the use of X-ray equipment, the C-arm, which provides real-time images to assist the surgeon in conducting instruments inserted into the patient and in the delivery of surgical cement into the fractured vertebra. The radiation transport code used was MCNPX (Monte Carlo N-Particle eXtended) and a pair of UFHADM (University of Florida Hybrid ADult Male) virtual phantoms. The developed scenarios allowed us to calculate a set of equivalent dose (HT) and effective dose (E) for patients and surgeons. In additional, the same scenario was calculated KAP in the tube output and was used for calculating conversion coefficients (E/KAP and HT/KAP). From the knowledge of the experimental values of KAP and the results presented in this study, it is possible to estimate absolute values of effective doses for different exposure conditions. In this work, we developed scenarios with and without the surgical table with the purpose of comparison with the existing data in the literature. The absence of the bed in the scenario promoted a percentage absolute difference of 56% in the patient effective doses in relation to scenarios calculated with a bed. Regarding the surgeon, the use of the personal protective equipment (PPE) reduces between 75% and 79% the effective dose and the use of the under table shield (UTS) reduces the effective dose of between 3% and 7%. All these variations emphasize the importance of the elaboration of virtual scenarios that approach the actual clinical conditions generating E/KAP and HT/KAP closer to the actual values.

Percutaneous device closure of atrial septal defect with totally transthoracic echocardiography guide, without x-ray machine.

The present study investigated the feasibility of totally transthoracic echocardiography-guided percutaneous device occlusion of atrial septal defects (ASDs) without using x-ray equipment.Between September and December 2014, we performed totally transthoracic echocardiography-guided percutaneous device occlusion for 20 patients with secundum ASD without using x-ray equipment. We carried out percutaneous femoral vein puncture, used a specialized delivery sheath during operation, and closed the ASD by releasing an occluder.All 20 patients experienced successful occlusion and smoothly went through the perioperative period. The average procedure time ranged from 30 to 40 minutes (32.4 ± 3.5 minutes), and the size of the implanted occluder ranged from 20 to 38 mm (25.4 ± 5.8 mm). No occluder displacements, residual fistula, or thrombus-related complications after the procedure. There was no clinical death, no arrhythmia, no hemolysis, no infection, or embolism during patients’ hospitalization and the follow-up period.Totally transthoracic echocardiography-guided percutaneous device occlusion of ASDs without the use of x-ray equipment may be safe and feasible.

Avaliação da utilização de aparelhos de raios-x em consultórios odontológicos em Belo Horizonte, Brasil

Objetivo: Avaliar o conhecimento teórico e a prática radiológica dos cirurgiões dentistas no município de Belo Horizonte. Materiais e Métodos: Foi aplicado questionário para 256 dentistas registrados em Belo Horizonte, selecionados aleatoriamente, enfocando aspectos relacionados ao conhecimento teórico e à prática radiológica na clínica odontológica. Os dados foram analisados pormeio de análise de frequência e análise bivariada. Resultados: Dos entrevistados, 53,9% possuíam aparelhos de raios-X. Destes, 19,6% não conheciam o tipo de aparelho que utilizavam. Os profissionais com até 20 anos de formatura apresentaram maior conhecimento sobre as técnicas radiográficas e sobre as medidas de radioproteção e biossegurança, porém mostraram menor conhecimento sobre as características do aparelho que utilizavam. Por outro lado, os profissionais formados há mais de 21 anos demonstraram maior conhecimento sobre a aparelhagem e menor conhecimento em relação às técnicas radiográficas, medidas de radioproteção e biossegurança. A câmara portátil foi o ambiente de processamento mais utilizado. Conclusão: Detectou-se que a prática radiolgica apresenta problemas diferenciados, sugerindo a necessidade de melhorias na formação e atualização profissionais.Descritores: Radiografia dentária. Proteção radiológica. Condutas na prática dos dentistas.

Micro-computed tomography scan and virtual histological slide data for the land planarian Obama otavioi (Platyhelminthes).

BackgroundWe investigated whether images obtained through X-ray micro-computed tomography (μCT) can be used in conjunction with traditional methods for morphological studies of soft-bodied land planarians. μCT is non-invasive and provides true-to-scale three-dimensional imagery at high resolution. We compared μCT-based images of a recently described land planarian species of Obama otavioi (Platyhelminthes) with those obtained from light microphotography of histological sections, most of which were also digitized at high magnification.FindingsThe specimens studied were collected in 2012. Subsequent μCT-based images of the stained body of a paratype show nearly all morphological features provided by traditional histology, with the exception of particularly minute structures, smaller than 5 μm, such as the sensory pits and single muscle fibers, which are best visible on traditional histological sections. Because the technique is non-destructive, the scanned specimen is preserved without damage. The raw and derivative μCT data and virtual histological sections are freely available in GigaDB.ConclusionsThe μCT datasets of these stained soft-bodied organisms reveal images of external and internal structures that support previous taxonomic studies. This technique can be particularly important for non-destructively revealing internal details of whole museum specimens at a faster rate than histology alone. High-resolution virtual histological slides also allow further searches for new, previously unstudied morphological features. The use of X-ray equipment with higher resolution can enable smaller sensory organ and muscle fiber details to be seen. The image sets, μCT-based images and digitized histological slides can be disseminated without the constraints of specimen loans.

Safer mobile fluoroscopy in the trauma theatre: a survey of orthopaedic registrars and theatre staff

The Ionising Radiation (Protection of Persons Undergoing Medical Examination or Treatment) Regulations 1988 (POPUMET) made it compulsory from June 1990 for all staff directing medical exposures to ionising radiation to receive formal tuition at a core knowledge course. This course described the hazards of ionising radiation and the safe use of x-ray equipment. It instructed on the nature of ionising radiation and its interaction with tissues, principles and means of dose reduction to patient and operator, the importance of using the patient’s existing radiological information and statutory responsibilities. The POPUMET course was discontinued following the Ionising Radiation (Medical Exposure) Regulations 2000 (IR(ME)R). IR(ME)R training for healthcare professionals is available as a half-day theoretical course suitable for those designated as ‘referrer’ by their employers. Other locally run ionising radiation protection courses are tailored to the varied requirements of a spectrum of healthcare professionals.

Radiation protection and the safe use of X-ray equipment: Laws, regulations and responsibilities

Lately, South Africa’s regulatory framework for electromagnetic medical devices has come under considerable pressure. In this article the legislative framework and regulatory infrastructure are scrutinized, by looking at how the legislature has given form to protective measures against ionizing radiation.
 Although the Hazardous Substances Act provides for effective protection against radiation, poor administration led to insufficient staffing levels, uncertainty about Regulations and licensing conditions and therefore undermines a sound radiation protection infrastructure. The legal basis of enforcing licensing conditions through a website without proper consultation with interested and affected parties is questionable and ineffective in controlling radiation levels.
 Effective and legal radiation control is possible by activating the National Advisory Committee on Electronic Products provided for in Regulation R326 published in 1979, but never implemented.
 The possible impact of annual quality assurance tests currently enforced through licensing conditions on the radiation dose of the population is not cost effective as new training and accreditation structures had to be created. The fact that generally more than 80% of overexposures are caused by human error is a clear indication that training of the daily users of X-ray equipment should be emphasized and not the training and accreditation of the technicians responsible for a single quality assurance test per year.
 Constructive engagement with the professional bodies involved in the medical use of X-rays through a National Advisory Committee on Electronic Products may be a cost effective solution for lowering radiation dose to the population.

Occupational and patient exposure in interventional cardiology in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Monitoring of professionally exposed workers in Bosnia and Herzegovina started in 1960s. Doses received by patients and professionals in interventional cardiology are high in comparison with other practices in medicine. The purpose of this study is to present personal and patient dosimetry data. Results show increase in doses of personnel in interventional cardiology. Total collective dose for four cardiology centres in Bosnia and Herzegovina increased from 15 person mSv in 2007 to 52 person mSv in 2010. This increase mainly corresponds to higher number of personnel and increase in the number of procedures. Average monthly dose has increased from 0.40 to 0.72 mSv in the same period. The results of occupational and patient doses in interventional cardiology are similar to results reported in the literature. It is of great importance for professionals working in this field to be educated in radiation protection and proper use of X-ray equipment.

Basic radiation protection considerations in dental practice.

This article provides basic guidance to radiation safety professionals unfamiliar with dental radiography on how to optimize the use of x-ray equipment and maintain occupational and non-occupational doses ALARA. Topics discussed in this article include basic protective measures commonly used to minimize the patient and operator's exposure to radiation, recommendations for the development of operating procedures, and the performance of compliance audits in dental practice.

Balancing patient dose and image quality

The formation of images in diagnostic radiology involves a complex interdependence of many factors. The ideal balance is to obtain an image which is adequate for the clinical purpose with the minimum radiation dose. Factors which affect radiation dose and image quality can be grouped under three headings; radiation quality, photon fluence and removal of scattered radiation. If optimal performance is to be achieved, it is necessary to understand how these factors influence image formation and affect radiation dose, and apply methodology for image quality and dose analysis at each stage in the development and use of X-ray equipment.

Use of Lightweight X-Ray Machine and Processor during Riverine Medical Readiness Training Exercise on the Amazon River

A small lightweight X-ray machine and processor are needed for use in military medicine for humanitarian service missions, training exercises, and even tactical situations. Size and weight have frequently been a limiting factor for the use of X-ray equipment in military medicine. The large size and great weight of X-ray equipment often limit its use and make this diagnostic modality unsuitable. I believe that a smaller X-ray machine, combined with the new improved lightweight Polaroid processor and film, can provide adequate X-ray exams in a high percentage of patients.

Image quality and radiation levels in videofluoroscopy for swallowing studies: A review

Inexpensive video recording equipment coupled to conventional x-ray fluoroscopes is now in widespread use by clinicians for the evaluation of patients with swallowing disorders. The prevalence and simplicity of this apparatus have encouraged its use by clinical specialists who are often not specifically trained in the safe use of x-ray equipment, and this may not be in the best interest of either the patient or the examiner. This has prompted an overview of the operating principles of videofluorescopy equipment. The factors governing image quality are discussed as well as potential hazards and protective measures for both patients and operator. A method of estimating the radiation dose to sensitive tissues from a typical swallowing study is included.