Evaluation of Repeated X-Ray Examinations and their Underlying Causes in the Radiology Department
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.66021/Keywords:
X-ray repetition, diagnostic radiology, image quality, patient positioning, repeat rate, quality control.Abstract
Repeated X-ray examinations present significant challenges in diagnostic radiology by increasing radiation exposure, causing diagnostic delays, and reducing departmental efficiency. This study aimed to evaluate the frequency of repeated X-rays and investigate the underlying causes within the radiology department at AL-KHIDMAT Hospital, Peshawar. A cross-sectional observational design was used over four months, reviewing 114 X-ray cases and administering questionnaires to radiology staff. The findings revealed an alarmingly high repeat rate of 33.3%, far above the internationally recommended threshold of 5–7%. Chest radiographs were the most frequently repeated, constituting 44.7% of all repeat cases. The primary causes identified were poor image quality (23.6%), patient movement (26.3%), and incorrect positioning (15.8%). These results highlight the urgent need for interventions, including structured reject analysis programs, enhanced radiographer training, standardized imaging protocols, and improved patient communication, to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure and optimize diagnostic workflow.
