Digital Radiographic Rejection Analysis in a Tertiary Hospital in North Central Nigeria

Abstract

Radiographic imaging is an essential tool in modern medicine, providing critical diagnostic information. However, the quality of these images can be compromised by various factors leading to rejection, which in turn affects patient management and increases healthcare costs. The findings from this study will be used in planning and implementing improved diagnostic accuracy, reducing the operational burden and cost on healthcare facilities. This study investigates the rejection rate of digital radiographs in a tertiary hospital in North Central Nigeria, aiming to identify common causes and distribution patterns by body part, sex, and age. A comprehensive retrospective analysis of 299 radiographic examinations over a period of 6 months was carried out by a certified radiologist. The study revealed a rejection rate of 10.37%. The most frequent reasons for rejection included poor positioning, incomplete images, and cut-off errors. The study also found slight variations in rejection rates between males and females and between children and adults. Notably, the chest radiographs exhibited the highest rejection rate, primarily due to positioning issues. These findings underscore the need for improved training and quality control measures to enhance the overall quality of radiographic imaging and patient care.