Evaluation of Chest X-Ray Quality Parameters

Abstract

Proper control of radiographic quality is important to guarantee the method high sensitivity and specificity, important factors for diagnostic complementation. It is the responsibility of the practitioner performing the radiological techniques to ensure that all chest radiographs are provided for minimal rotation, good radiographic exposure and adequate inspiration. This cross-sectional study retrospectively evaluated 456 chest radiographs in the poster anterior and lateral projection performed at a diagnostic center between May 2017 and September 2019. 45% had changes in technical parameters, of which 62% had positioning errors (rotation and asymmetry between the spinous process and medial extremity of the clavicles), 25% had errors in radiographic exposure (underexposure and overexposure) and 13% had inadequate respiratory maneuver. The observed results indicate significant deficiency of professionals regarding the minimum quality control required, as well as the need to implement a permanent education plan about the method.