Assessment of Quality Control for Medical Imaging Devices in Ilam Imaging Centers

Abstract

Background and Aim: One of the main steps of optimization process in diagnostic imaging is quality control of X-ray devices. If the control quality process and the quality of X-ray equipment are not ensured through a systematic procedure, it can increase the risk of unnecessary exposures among the population. Therefore, this study can reduce the risk of unnecessary exposures in the entire population. Materials and Methods: In this study, six quality control tests including voltage measurement accuracy test, time accuracy test, output repeatability test, output to time linearity test, output to milliamp linearity test, and radiation quality measurement test were evaluated in all centers of Ilam in accordance with what the international Atomic Energy Agency and the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran has presented. Results: The result showed that diagnostic X-ray devices available in Ilam had a relatively good quality in all quality control tests that were done except the associated with the radiance quality of (HVL). However, almost all these devices need to add additional filters to the X-ray tubes to resolve error in their HVL. Conclusion: Adding additional filters to radiology devices in Ilam Province and modifying the thickness of filters seem to be necessary and desirable which will prevent the unnecessary increase in patientschr('39') dose. The accurate and regular implementation of quality control tests in imaging wards should change into a culture. On the other hand, the relevant organizations which have the great responsibility to protect people against radiation are recommended to monitor and supervise radiology centers more accurately and responsibly to repair diagnostic radiation devices.

Keywords

• quality control
• x-ray equipment
• radiology
• ilam