Comparing the supine and erect pelvis radiographic examinations: an evaluation of anatomy, image quality and radiation dose.

Objectives: Pelvis radiographs are usually acquired supine despite standing imaging reflecting functional anatomy. We compared supine and erect radiographic examinations for anatomical features, radiation dose and image quality.

Methods: 60 patients underwent pelvis radiography in both supine and erect positions at the same examination appointment.

Review and optimisation of foot radiography technique.

Introduction: Radiography is an important tool in the diagnosis of trauma and diseases of the foot. Consistent image quality and anatomical appearances are essential to ensure that images are interpreted correctly and this study aims to evaluate current technique and use anthropomorphical phantoms in order to investigate the most optimal radiographic technique.

Methods: A two part study was conducted.

Variation in pelvic radiography practice: Why can we not standardise image acquisition techniques?

Introduction: Pelvic radiographs remain an essential investigation in orthopaedic practice. Although it is recognised that acquisition techniques can affect image appearances and measurement accuracy, it remains unclear what variation in practice exists and what impact this could have on decision making.

Method: This was a cross sectional survey of UK radiology departments utilising an electronic tool.

Impact of body part thickness on AP pelvis radiographic image quality and effective dose.

Introduction: Within medical imaging variations in patient size can generate challenges, especially when selecting appropriate acquisition parameters. This experiment sought to evaluate the impact of increasing body part thickness on image quality (IQ) and effective dose (E) and identify optimum exposure parameters.

Methods: An anthropomorphic pelvis phantom was imaged with additional layers (1-15 cm) of animal fat as a proxy for increasing body thickness.