Reject analysis in mammography examinations using computed radiography: a case study in an Indonesian radiology department

Abstract

Mammography is the front-line imaging modality in early detection of breast cancer, which has been linked to improved survival rate. While the image quality needs to be maintained in mammography practice, the examination is often repeated due to several factors. While repeat analysis program may provide radiographers with educational benefits, however it has been reported that not all radiology department adhered this recommendation. In the study hospital, image repeat analysis had never been conducted before. This study aimed to investigate the number of repeat and to analyse the cause for repeat in mammography examination using Computed Radiography in a public hospital in Bali, Indonesia.

This retrospective study was conducted in a major hospital in Bali, Indonesia. All the mammography examinations acquired with Carestream CR system over 4-month period (January to April 2019) were included in this study. Along with the number of repeated images, data regarding time and date, and the cause for repeat were also collected. The study shows that of a total 40 mammography images, the repeat rate was 5%. This exceeded the Indonesian government’s recommended level of <2%. Positioning was the main and the only cause for repeat (100%). Further training to staff is highly required to improve the skills of radiographers so that the repeat rate can be reduced, which subsequently maintain the consistency of image quality, and reduce radiation dose and cost.