Determinants of Image Retakes in General Digital Radiography

Abstract

Although it has replaced screen-film radiography in various radiological units, digital radiography (DR) still produces high image retake, which contributes unnecessary radiation dose to patients. This study aimed to investigate patient- and radiographer-related determinants of image retakes in general DR among hospitals in Southeastern Philippines. A total of 455 images were included in the analysis. Frequency, chi-square test of independence and binary logistics regression were applied. In the adjusted model, image retake occurred more likely in non-sthenic patients compared with sthenic patients (OR = 95.16; 95% CI = 87.42-119.90), in non-ambulatory patients compared with ambulatory patients (OR = 175.59; 95% CI = 143.45-191.80), and in procedures involving the axial section of the body as compared with the appendicular part of the body (OR = 1060.96; 95% CI = 997.68-1175.92). No significant association was observed for patient and radiographers’ sexes. The results of this study highlighted that among the variables, procedures that involved asthenic and non-ambulatory patients as well as axial body parts were determinants of image retake occurrence. Intervention programs for image retake prevention in hospitals should put emphasis on these types of patients and radiographic procedures.