{"title":"Message de la rédactrice en chef","authors":"Amanda Bolderston EdD, MSc, MRT(T), FCAMRT","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102003","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102003","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"56 4","pages":"Article 102003"},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144672031","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Enhancing patient understanding using visual aids in Head and Neck Education","authors":"Michelle Boey Ting Fang","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102050","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102050","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Aim</h3><div>Head and Neck (HN) radiotherapy briefings are typically more time consuming compared to other sites due to the complexity of the treatment area. Information is often lost in translation, especially among elderly patients, who may misinterpret or lose focus. Conventionally, these briefings rely on verbal communication and checklist for the Radiation Therapists (RT), but this approach can lead to confusion and inefficiency. Visual aids help to overcome language barriers and medical jargons. Potentially they standardize briefing procedure, making it easier and quicker to convey information effectively. In this improvement project, we aim to find out the experience of the RTs on the effectiveness of educational slides in briefing patients on Day 1 and to gather suggestions for improving future patient education materials.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Educational slides with pictorial aids were designed to enhance the understanding and management of side effects for patients during their Day 1 briefing. Feedback on the content was gathered from HN Radiation Oncologist (RO) and the RTs working in the HN treatment room to ensure the content was clear and relevant. Slides were created using simple language and visuals based on the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) v4.0, which is an assessment tool used by our department HN ROs to evaluate radiation-induced toxicities. These slides were then tested at a clinical setting on HN radiotherapy patients. Survey was conducted via FormSG on 20 RTs who have utilised the slides in replacement of the briefing checklist.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Interestingly, the results for the biggest challenge faced by the RTs during briefing were fairly equal, with a slightly higher percentage (35%) leaning towards ‘patients zoning out’ due to the overwhelming amount of information. All respondents (100%) agreed that the slides are beneficial as they are comprehensive and enhance patients' understanding more effectively than using a physical checklist alone. Additionally, 90% of respondents felt that the slides helped boost their confidence during briefings by reducing the likelihood of forgetting important information. However, 45% of respondents felt that the slides did not significantly reduce briefing times, possibly due to patient nervousness and the tendency of some patients to prompt more questions after viewing the educational slides.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The results showed that visual aids can significantly help RTs in delivering crucial information to HN RT patients. Moreover, the RTs felt it enhances patients’ understanding and retention of complex information during HN radiotherapy briefings. The project demonstrated the potential for further improvements, such as providing materials in multiple languages or offering physical samples of products. Future enhancements could include supplementary brochures and websites to support patients ","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"56 2","pages":"Article 102050"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144722659","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Wee Kiat Chan, Fayth Christie Retnam, Jane (Xin Yee) Ho, Vinnie (Jia Si) Tan, Sharon (Mei Mei) Wong
{"title":"Perceptions on Advanced Practice Roles for Diagnostic Radiographers in Singapore","authors":"Wee Kiat Chan, Fayth Christie Retnam, Jane (Xin Yee) Ho, Vinnie (Jia Si) Tan, Sharon (Mei Mei) Wong","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102060","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102060","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Aim</h3><div>In Singapore, an aging population and growing healthcare demands underscore the need for innovative solutions to address radiology workforce shortages. Advanced Practice in Diagnostic Radiography (APDR) could enhance efficiency, reduce radiologists’ workload, and improve patient outcomes. Despite the development of AP radiographers advancing internationally, it is still nascent in Singapore. Challenges such as resistance from radiology professionals, underutilisation of radiographers’ skills, and inadequate compensation structures pose significant barriers.</div><div>This study investigates perceptions of APDR roles among Singapore's diagnostic radiographers and radiologists, focusing on local definitions, driving forces, receptiveness of stakeholders, possible areas of implementation, and potential constraints.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Using a mixed-methods approach, data was collected from stakeholders through semi-structured questionnaires, combining quantitative and qualitative analyses.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Respondents agreed that an AP radiographer should have autonomous decision-making, multiple roles and responsibilities, and continued improvements in skillset, knowledge, and/or qualifications. Respondents show positive interest (69.6%) in becoming AP radiographers, as they want to “upgrade oneself” and that it is an “incentive for career progression.\". Respondents agreed (95.5%) that AP radiography streamlines certain processes, thus improving efficiency. 59% of respondents agreed that the amount of formal education and training received is the most important requirement for an AP radiographer.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This pilot study provides an insight into the current viewpoint towards AP in Singapore, paving the way for further investigations. Reception to implementation of APDR is positive and carries potential.</div><div>The limitation of our study also serves as an important consideration for future research, highlighting areas that require further exploration, e.g. other stakeholders’ viewpoints and wider participation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"56 2","pages":"Article 102060"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144722560","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Tong Bing Teck, Davidson Phua Si Jian, Donovan Lim Yong Kang
{"title":"Monte Carlo GATE Simulation for Computed Tomography Development","authors":"Tong Bing Teck, Davidson Phua Si Jian, Donovan Lim Yong Kang","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102062","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102062","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Aim</h3><div>The primary concern in computed tomography (CT) research to improve image quality or reduce radiation dose, is the radiation exposure to human subjects. Traditional phantom-based studies, while valuable and eliminates concerns of radiation dose to participants, can lead to X-ray tube degradation due to the numerous exposures required for each parameter adjustment, thus increasing cost. In recent years, Monte Carlo simulation techniques have gained popularity among X-ray simulation studies. Among numerous Monte Carlo-based software for medical imaging, GATE (Geant4 Application for Tomographic Emission) has gained traction in medical imaging research. Released in 2004, the open-source software was dedicated to emission tomography research. However, newer models have allowed its application in CT simulations, and a few studies have since explored the use of GATE for CT research. Such studies performed only with the use of computer simulation, also known as in silico studies, offer several benefits. In silico studies do not require recruitment of participants, use of scanners, or Institutional Review Board (IRB) approvals, making them less expensive and faster. Moreover, there would not be ethical concerns about radiation risk and dose, and concerns about degradation of CT scanners, especially in the X-ray tubes. Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore the use of GATE, in investigating the effect of 1) low tube-voltage versus high tube-voltage protocols, 2) monoenergetic versus polyenergetic X-ray beams, 3) detector material, on image quality.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A CT setup was modeled in GATE, based on a 25:1 scaled down model of a third generation rotate-rotate CT scanner, with a module 1 of the Gammex 464 ACR Phantom. All components of the GATE simulation design, including key parameters such as X-ray beam configuration, phantom design, and detector material, were configured with the use of macro files. Macro files in GATE are essentially text files that contain a sequence of commands. These commands instruct GATE on how to set up and run a simulation. Raw CT projection data was obtained from the simulations before image reconstruction was performed. Image reconstruction was performed using MATLAB version R2024a, involving four main steps: 1) Reading raw CT projection data, 2) Data rebinning, 3) Filtered back projection, 4) Converting data to DICOM image format for image analysis. Two data rebinning methods were used, the Feldkamp-Davis-Kress (FDK) method and the take method. ROIs in the material cylinders and the background were placed, for measurement of SNR and CNR to assess image quality. To evaluate differences in image quality, independent t-test was performed using MATLAB version R2024a.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Our findings show variable effects in image quality, measured by SNR and CNR, across all three objectives. Generally, these differences between protocols were not statistical","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"56 2","pages":"Article 102062"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144722562","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Editorial Board/Masthead","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/S1939-8654(25)00221-8","DOIUrl":"10.1016/S1939-8654(25)00221-8","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"56 2","pages":"Article 102072"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144722563","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Yeo Wei Jun, Celine Tan Ying Yi, Vidhyasri Thirumavalavan
{"title":"Navigating Success: Gamification through 'Amazing Race' Enhances Radiographer Orientation and Policy Comprehension","authors":"Yeo Wei Jun, Celine Tan Ying Yi, Vidhyasri Thirumavalavan","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102049","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102049","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Aim</h3><div>To assess the efficacy of gamification, specifically an “Amazing Race” event, in enhancing radiographers' orientation to their work environment, with emphasis on wayfinding and essential procedural policies.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A gamified orientation programme was designed and implemented for new radiographers, incorporating elements of the “Amazing Race” television show. The programme included challenges related to department navigation, policy comprehension, and procedural knowledge. Post-event evaluation utilised a mixed-methods approach, analysing responses from 24 new radiographers through the lens of the Kirkpatrick framework for training evaluation.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The gamified orientation programme demonstrated significant effectiveness in both quantitative and qualitative measures. Quantitatively, 95.8% of participants reported improved understanding of departmental layout and key policies, while 87.5% felt more confident in navigating the department post-event, and 91.7% reported increased confidence in applying workplace policies. Qualitative insights revealed that participants specifically noted improved confidence in patient identification procedures and enhanced ability to handle sensitive situations. The interactive nature of the challenges was credited with improving retention of critical information. Overall, the “Amazing Race” format successfully combined experiential learning with enjoyment, resulting in high levels of engagement and significant self-reported improvements in both wayfinding abilities and policy knowledge, underscoring the effectiveness of gamification in facilitating learning and orientation for new radiographers.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The integration of gamification principles into radiographer orientation, through an “Amazing Race” format, demonstrated significant benefits in familiarising new staff with their work environment and essential procedures. This approach effectively combined experiential learning with fun, resulting in high engagement and reported improvements in wayfinding abilities and policy knowledge. The success of this method suggests that gamification can be a valuable tool in healthcare professional orientation, particularly for roles requiring rapid assimilation of spatial and procedural information.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"56 2","pages":"Article 102049"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144722658","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Editorial Board/Masthead","authors":"","doi":"10.1016/S1939-8654(25)00168-7","DOIUrl":"10.1016/S1939-8654(25)00168-7","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"56 4","pages":"Article 102019"},"PeriodicalIF":1.3,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144672028","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Vidhyasri Thirumavalavan, Seah Zhi Xuan, Celine Tan Ying Yi
{"title":"Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Buddy System for Successful Onboarding of New Radiographers in the Radiography Department","authors":"Vidhyasri Thirumavalavan, Seah Zhi Xuan, Celine Tan Ying Yi","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102056","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102056","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Aim</h3><div>To evaluate the effectiveness of a buddy system for new radiographers at Singapore General Hospital (SGH) using the Kirkpatrick Model, with the aim of enhancing staff wellness and improving onboarding experiences by aligning the system with the expressed needs of new radiographers.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A mixed-methods study was conducted involving 24 new radiographers who participated in SGH's buddy system. Data was collected through surveys and open-ended questions. The Kirkpatrick Model's four levels (Reaction, Learning, Behaviour, and Results) were used to structure the evaluation. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically, while quantitative data was summarized using descriptive statistics.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Level 1 (Reaction) showed generally positive reception with an average satisfaction rating of 3.04 out of 4. 92% of participants felt the system created a safe and supportive environment. Level 2 (Learning) indicated that 68% of participants frequently applied skills learned through the system, with notable improvements in understanding protocols, workflows, and SGH's work culture. Level 3 (Behaviour) demonstrated that 84% of participants felt the system helped them adapt to SGH's work culture faster. Level 4 (Results) suggested improved integration of new staff, especially foreign radiographers, with 92% recommending continuation of the buddy system. Qualitative data indicated potential improvements in patient care, faster transition to independent practice, and increased confidence. Areas for enhancement included more structured interactions, increased opportunities for buddies to work together, and regular check-ins.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The buddy system proves to be an effective tool for onboarding new radiographers, particularly in creating a supportive environment and facilitating learning of essential skills and cultural adaptation. To further enhance staff wellness and improve onboarding experiences, future iterations of the program should consider implementing more structured interactions, increasing opportunities for buddies to work together, and focusing on gathering quantitative data for behavioural changes and long-term results. These adjustments will help align the system more closely with the expressed needs of new radiographers, potentially leading to improved job satisfaction, faster integration, and enhanced patient care.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"56 2","pages":"Article 102056"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144722557","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Exploring Measures to Assist Radiographers in Correct Marker Placement and Anatomical Side Identification in DDII, KKH","authors":"Leong Yin Yi, Zoe Chan Soak Yee, Nadhirah Binte Zainuddin, Tang Kiew Hoon, Toh Lee Chuen","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102058","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102058","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Aim</h3><div>Anatomical side misidentification during X-ray procedures can cause serious clinical consequences. At DDII,KKH, X-ray system lacks order laterality, increasing the risk of incorrect imaging. This study aimed to evaluate the compliance, effectiveness and radiographer’s willingness for implementation of three measures in reducing such errors: (M1) enlarging the Computerized Physician Order Entry (CPOE) interface, (M2) annotating lead skirts with “R” and “L,” and (M3) using similarly labelled thyroid shields.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Each measure was conducted in DDII Room 21 (Outpatient setting) over 10 working days:</div><div>M1 (16/09/2024–27/09/2024): Displaying patient details in large font on a desktop in room 21 to prevent radiographer from performing the wrong order of laterality during positioning.</div><div>M2 (30/09/2024–11/10/2024): Patients wore annotated skirts to indicate anatomical sides, applied at the radiographer’s discretion and excluded when obstructive.</div><div>M3 (14/10/2024–1/11/2024): Annotated thyroid shields were similarly used as M2, subjecting to patient cooperation and procedure needs.</div><div>Compliance and effectiveness were assessed through mixed-method surveys, including Likert scale ratings, dichotomous questions on effectiveness and willingness to implement, and open ended feedback. Results were analyzed as percentages and averages for comparison.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>No incidents of side misidentification/wrong marker placement were reported during any trial period.</div><div>The three measures had varying result sample sizes (M1: n=11, M2: n=8, M3: n=9). M1 had the highest average compliance rating (3.91), followed by M2 (3.75) and M3 (3.44).</div><div>Despite the variation in respondent numbers, the results indicated an overall tendency toward moderate compliance of use across all measures.</div><div>In terms of effectiveness, the majority of respondents in all surveys (81%-88.9%) found the measures helpful.</div><div>Implementation support varied, with M1 showing the strongest support (73%), M2 the least (25%), and M3 receiving neutral responses (44.4%).</div><div>Key concerns included feasibility during peak hours, additional disinfection needs, and sizing challenges, particularly for paediatric patients in M2 and M3. M1 raised concerns regarding patient data protection (PDPA).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>While all three measures demonstrated reasonable compliance and were considered to be effective as a reference, the disparity in support for implementation indicates that further refinement of the measures, as well as consideration for workflow impact and patient comfort, may be required for greater acceptance.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"56 2","pages":"Article 102058"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144722558","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Empowering radiographers in decision-making for post-TKR radiography","authors":"Chin Shi Hui, Celine Tan Ying Yi, Pang Hee Nee","doi":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102057","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.jmir.2025.102057","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Aim</h3><div>Radiographers frequently experience workflow disruptions and frustrations due to calls to surgeons for clarifications regarding post-operative total knee replacement (TKR) imaging. The project aims to reduce the number calls made by radiographers for post-operative TKR imaging clarifications by 50% in four weeks thereby improving workflow efficiency.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>5-Why root cause analysis identified a need for greater autonomy of radiographers and clearer protocols for post-operative TKR imaging. Radiographers and surgeons collaboratively developed a protocol to empower radiographers to make informed decisions, thereby reducing unnecessary communication with surgeons.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Number of calls made by radiographers to clinicians significantly reduced by 98% after implementation of the new workflow. A mixed method survey recorded 81% satisfaction in radiographers with the new workflow and 96% radiographers reported improved efficiency of post-TKR radiography as reduced calls were made to surgeons.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Interprofessional collaboration between radiographers and surgeons streamlined the workflow thereby reducing waste in imaging procedures, improving efficiency, and enhancing patient safety as radiographers were empowered in decision-making for post-TKR radiography.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":46420,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences","volume":"56 2","pages":"Article 102057"},"PeriodicalIF":2.0,"publicationDate":"2025-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144722657","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}