Comparison of image quality assessments between interventional radiographers and interventional radiologists using digital subtraction angiography.

Purpose: The aim of our study was to compare the image quality assessments of vascular anatomy between interventional radiographers and interventional radiologists using digital subtraction angiography (DSA) runs acquired during an interventional radiology procedure.

Approach: Visual grading characteristics (VGC) analysis was used to assess image quality by comparing two groups of images, where one group consisted of procedures in which radiation dose was optimized (group A, ) and one group where dose optimization was not performed (group B, ). The radiation dose parameters were optimized based on theoretical and empirical evidence to achieve radiation dose reductions during uterine artery embolization procedures.

Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Prostate and Prostate-specific Membrane Positron Emission Tomography Prior to Prostate Biopsy (MP4 Study).

Background: Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography/computerised tomography (PET/CT) is increasingly being utilised in the diagnostic pathway for prostate cancer (PCa). Recent publications have suggested that this might help identify those who can avoid biopsy.

Objective: The primary objective of this study was to determine whether PET magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) fusion could negate the need to biopsy prior to prostatectomy in a selected population of men.

Predictors of radiation dose for uterine artery embolisation are angiography system-dependent.

This study sought to achieve radiation dose reductions for patients receiving uterine artery embolisation (UAE) by evaluating radiation dose measurements for the preceding generation (Allura) and upgraded (Azurion) angiography system. Previous UAE regression models in the literature could not be applied to this centre's practice due to being based on different angiography systems and radiation dose predictor variables. The aims of this study were to establish whether radiation dose is reduced with the upgraded angiography system and to develop a regression model to determine predictors of radiation dose specific to the upgraded angiography system.

UTERINE ARTERY EMBOLISATION: CONTINUOUS QUALITY IMPROVEMENT REDUCES RADIATION DOSE WHILE MAINTAINING IMAGE QUALITY.

The purpose of this study was to introduce a continuous quality improvement (CQI) program for radiation dose optimisation during uterine artery embolisation (UAE) and assess its impact on dose reduction and image quality. The CQI program investigated the effects of optimising radiation dose parameters on the kerma-area product (KAP) and image quality when comparing a 'CQI intervention' group (n = 50) and 'Control' group (n = 50). Visual grading characteristics (VGC) analysis was used to assess image quality, using the 'Control' group as a reference.

Identifying predictors of patient radiation dose during uterine artery embolisation.

Introduction: Uterine artery embolisation (UAE) is regarded as a safe and effective treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids and/or adenomyosis. Dose reduction during UAE is critical for this reproductive-age patient population to minimise the risks of radiation-induced effects. The aim of this study was to identify the predictors of radiation dose which can be controlled and optimised for patients during UAE.

The factors contributing to the total radiation exposure of patients during uterine artery embolisation.

Uterine artery embolisation (UAE) is an interventional angiography procedure for the treatment of symptomatic fibroids and/or adenomyosis in women. UAE is a less invasive and non-surgical alternative to hysterectomy or myomectomy. However, ionising radiation is used for both fluoroscopic and angiographic image guidance to visualise and access the uterine arteries for embolisation and treatment of these benign conditions.

Improving nurse initiated X-ray practice through action research.

Introduction: Due to increasing demands on hospital Emergency Departments (EDs), the role of registered nurses, with additional training, has been extended to include requesting X-ray examinations. The aim of this study was to evaluate nurse practice guidelines for requesting X-rays in the ED setting and to utilise inter-professional learning and change management theory to promote practice improvements.

Methods: Three hundred and one nurse initiated X-ray (NIX) requests were randomly selected between January and March 2012, and reviewed for observance of local department guidelines and quality of clinical history.

Information literacy: are final-year medical radiation science students on the pathway to success?

It is necessary for Medical Radiation Science (MRS) students to become information literate in order to interact with and thrive in the professional health care arena. All health care professionals require information literacy (IL) skills to be independent learners and critical thinkers. To achieve this, effective search and evaluation methods must be cultivated in students.