Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) For Contrast Radiography Examinations in North Eastern Nigeria

Joseph Dlama Zira, Christian Chukwuemeka Nzotta, Joseph Dimas Skam

Abstract


Background: Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) is an essential optimization tool in radiation medicine. This study was carried out as part of a comprehensive project to establish DRLs for radiological examinations for the first time in North Eastern Nigeria.

Objective of the study: To establish DRL for contrast radiography examinations in north eastern Nigeria and to compare it with other established work.

Methodology: This study is a prospective cross- sectional study conducted in two university teaching hospitals in north eastern Nigeria. Three hundred and Sixty (360) patients were recruited for the study. Thermoluminiscent dosimeter (TLD) chips were exposed for each examination while Dose area product (DAP) meter was used in fluoroscopy examination. TLD readings (entrance skin dose) were obtained at the Centre for Energy Research and Training Zaria, Kaduna state, Nigeria. Student T-test was used to determine the relationship between the mean ESD obtained in the two centers and Pearson’s correlation was used to determine the relationship between the dose and anthropotechnical parameters. Statistical significance was set at P<0.05.

Results: DRLs for this study are 6.68 mGy ,10.66 mGy.cm2 for IVU, 2.31 mGy,3.6723 mGy.cm2  for HSG, 2.66 mGy ,8.98 mGy.cm2  for barium meal, 12.78 mGy,20.64 mGy.cm2 for barium enema,2.73 mGy and 6.56 mGy.cm2 for barium swallow and 2.05 mGy, 7.77 mGy.cm2 for RUG respectively. However, ESD and DAP show statistical significant relationship for barium enema while mAs and kVp showed statistical significant relationship for barium swallow and barium meal respectively. The remaining study showed no statistical significance p>0.05.

Conclusion: DRLs in this work recorded lower values compared to international established work. . However, regular dose optimization technique and etiquette are required to ensure good practice in North Eastern Nigeria.


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