A film reject analysis at two radiology departments in Nairobi
Abstract
Repeat films may be necessary if the preceding film is of poor
quality or if the film does not provide the desired radiographic
criteria for diagnosis.
The rate of repeat films is variable in different institutions
as reviewed in the study. It is desirable to reduce the repeat of
film sand hence the exposure to unnecessary radiation and also the
cost of the service.
Between March and September 1992, a total of 4723 rejected
films representing various types of radiologic examination were
collected from Kenyatta National Hospital and the Agha Khan
Hospital.
The types of films and causes of repeats were analyzed. It was
found that of all the films studied, the overall reject rate was
3.1% for the Agakhan hospital and 5.9% for Kerry at.t.a National
hospital. The computer tomography film reject rate is 3.24% of all
computer tomography films used and 1.79% for ultrasound films to
number of films consumed.
The chest radiographs were the most frequently repeated with
28.5% films from KNH and 18.6% from AKH. The reason for this may be
due to the fact that chest radiographs are the most frequently
performed examinations. The 18x24cm film size is the most
frequently rejected at KNH with 27.8% while 24x30cm at AKH
accounted for 34%. The exposure factors (42.2%) and positioning
23.3% were found to be the main reasons for retake radiographs.
The overall repeat rates were 5.93% for Kenyatta National
Hospital and 3.14% for Agha khan Hospital. Of the total number of
films used the CT film and ultrasound film and 18x20cm film size
were encountered only at the Agha khan hospital at the time of the
study. The retake rates were within those reported in literature.
The higher figures for Kenyatta National hospital as compared
to that of Agha khan hospital may be explained by .-
(1) Recirculating of processor chemicals and lack of good quality
control program as evidenced by the low number of test films.
(2) The hospital characteristics I Agha Khan hospital being a
private hospital where cost is of utmost importance hence stringent
measures to reduce wastage.
(3) Number of employees.
Time to time study of retakes to review constantly the patterns of
retakes with an aim of reducing them I saving on the cost and
subsequent reduction of radiation to the general population is
recommended.
Citation
Degree of Masters of Medicine in Diagnostic Radiology, University Of NairobiPublisher
University of Nairobi School of Medicine
Description
A dissertation submitted in part fulfilment for the
Degree of Masters of Medicine in Diagnostic Radiology,
University Of Nairobi