Almost a year has passed since we
upgraded our X-ray department to state-of-the-art Computed Radiography (CR) system from
darkroom processor. Since then, more than 1000 patients has undergone
X-ray examinations of various parts (mainly chest X-rays), and close
to 100 patients has done their mammography examination here.
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| CR image |
Back in the days where darkroom is our
only means for film processing, the maximum number of patients that
we can receive a day is around 20 patients. This is because of the
time taken for the film to be developed, not to mention if additional
views are required or repeated examinations due to errors. Waiting
time is quite long, especially when patients came in groups.
However, with the installation of a
completely computerized imaging solution, the time taken for an
examination to finish has decreased significantly. This is because
the image processing time has been reduced to mere seconds, compared
to almost 3-5 minutes on darkroom processing. Hence, we are able to
reduce waiting time and cater more patients, and the department can
be run more efficiently. Radiation safety aspect is also improved,
where we are able to implement the high kV technique which
essentially reduces exposure time and amount. This results in reduced
radiation dose but with images that are on par, if not superior, with
diagnostic quality as done previously.
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PACS image
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We are also equipped with a PACS
system, which facilitates film viewing for our radiologists. By using
PACS, X-ray images, especially mammogram, can be viewed without
printing the films. This is advantageous because a soft copy image
can be manipulated for optimal contrast and details. In addition, the
image can be zoomed and enlarged at the part which shows suspicious
mass or nodules, a characteristic not found on conventional X-ray
film.
In a nutshell,computerized system has
increased the efficiency of the X-ray department to a level that is
not possible by the previous system. Moreover, reduction in patient's
radiation dose is a part of our responsibility as a radiographer,
thus by this CR system, we are able to fulfill that responsibility.
By,
Muhammad Riddha
Lecturer DMI
Muhammad Riddha
Lecturer DMI
