Radiation exposure from diagnostic radiography: an assessment of X-ray beam collimation practice in some Nigerian Hospitals

Received: February 28, 2009
Accepted: August 24, 2009
Ref: Okeji MC, Anakwue AM, Agwuna K. Radiation exposure from diagnostic radiography: an assessment of X-ray beam collimation practice in some Nigerian Hospitals. Internet J Med Update 2010 Jul;5(2):31-33.

RADIATION EXPOSURE FROM DIAGNOSTIC RADIOGRAPHY: AN ASSESSMENT OF X-RAY BEAM COLLIMATION PRACTICE IN SOME NIGERIAN HOSPITALS

Mr. Mark C. Okeji^† MSc, Mrs. Angel Mary Anakwue^† MSc and Dr. Kenneth Agwuna^‡ MBBS FWCR

^†Department of Medical Radiography and Radiological Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu campus, Nigeria
^‡Department of Radiology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu Campus, Nigeria

(Corresponding Author: Mr. Mark C. Okeji, Department of Medical Radiography and Radiological Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, College of Medicine, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria; E-mail: markokeji@yahoo.com)

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out to evaluate the X-ray beam collimation practice, among radiographers, as a measure of radiation protection for patients undergoing radiodiagnostic investigations. Inadequate X-ray beam collimation practice was observed in all the hospitals studied. Light beam misalignment/malfunction, pressure of work and years of experience were identified as major contributory factors. There is therefore need for proper equipment maintenance, employment of adequate number of radiographers and periodic audit of work pattern and output to minimize radiation exposure to the population.

KEY WORDS: Radiation exposure; Diagnostic radiography; Nigeria

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