Evaluation of medical X-ray machines in Paraíba state radiology centers between 2008 and 2009

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the light and radiation fields congruence and radiation beam alignment in medical X-rayequipment in Paraíba state radiology centers by means of two quality control tests. Materials and Methods: A loadedcassette, a measuring tape and a bubble level were utilized in the field size and alignment testing. The evaluation ofcollimation systems accuracy and X-ray beam alignment was undertaken during health inspections performed inradiology centers between 2008 and 2009. Results: In 2008, 121 X-ray machines were evaluated in the Paraíbastate. In 2009, 117 machines were tested. From this universe, 86 machines were selected for comparison, since theywere evaluated both in 2008 and 2009, with 18.60% (n = 16) showing test results improvement from one year toanother. Conclusion: The percentage of problematic X-ray machines decreased between 2008 and 2009,notwithstanding no quality assurance program has been observed in Paraíba state radiology centers. © Colégio Brasileiro de Radiologia e Diagnóstico por Imagem.