Reject analysis in direct digital radiography.

BACKGROUND

Reject analysis can be used as a quality indicator, and is an important tool in localizing areas where optimization is required. Reducing number of rejects is important yielding reduced patient exposure and increased cost-effectiveness.

PURPOSE

To determine rejection rates and causes in direct digital radiography.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Data were collected during a three-month period in spring 2010 at two direct digital laboratories in Norway. All X-ray examinations, types, numbers, and reasons for rejections were obtained using automatic reject analysis software. Thirteen causes for rejection could be selected.

RESULTS

Out of the 27,284 acquired images, 3206 were rejected, yielding an overall rejection rate of 12%. Highest rejection rates were found for examination of knees, shoulders, and wrist. In all, 77% of the rejected images arose from positioning errors.

CONCLUSION

An overall rejection rate of 12% indicates a need for optimizing radiographic practice in the department.