DEPARTMENT OF RADIOGRAPHY

The pregnancies present special safety concerns owing to the high levels of radiosensitivity of the embryo-fetus. This was an evaluation of radiation protection protocols used with pregnant patients when they undergo X-ray services at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). A cross-sectional (descriptive) survey of radiographers (N = 32) was done, where the survey utilizing a structured, self-administered questionnaire to respondents focused on the shielding practice, dose-reduction methods, and compliance aspects. Simple inferential test and descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. The majority of the respondents were male (78.1%), the most frequent age group was 26-30 years (35.9%); 53.1% of them were interns, and 87.5% had already worked with pregnant patients. Practice was high in terms of overall shielding (grand mean = 3.88/5) with routine lead shielding (mean = 4.1) and proper etching of the fetal-region shielding (mean = 4.0) being reported most frequently. There was also strong dose-reduction behavior (grand mean = 3.98), with avoiding repeat exposures (mean = 4.4), reducing exposure factors (mean = 4.2) and tight collimation (mean = 4.1) being the leaders. The best compliance was observed with confidence in fetal-risk knowledge (mean = 4.0) and prior-training (mean = 3.9) with high workload (mean = 3.6) and moderate availability/use of pregnancy specific protocols (mean = 3.5) being considered gaps. All in all, the good shielding practice was demonstrated by 78.1 percent of radiographers. A chi-square test revealed no statistically significant difference between the practice categories of shielding (kh2= 0.08, df= 1, p= 0.77). To sum up, radiographers in the teaching hospital of the university of Benin demonstrate good commitments to practices in line with the ALARA to the care of pregnant patients, especially in shielding and collimation as well as reducing repeats. Prolonged CPD, protocols specific to pregnancy, enhanced workflow facilitation, and an unproblematic access to maternity-fit shielding are suggested in order to seal the remaining gaps. Data collection had to be pre-empted with ethical approval and institutional permissions.

Radiology request forms (RRFs) are crucial tools that facilitate communication between referring clinicians and radiology departments, ensuring appropriate and justified imaging studies. When these forms are poorly completed, it can lead to diagnostic mistakes, treatment delays, unnecessary radiation exposure, and increased healthcare costs. This study evaluated how thoroughly referring physicians completed RRFs at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) and RayTouch Diagnostic Center in Benin City. A retrospective review of 1,600 forms submitted from June to November 2024 assessed key elements such as patient data, clinical background, requested imaging,and physician information. Completion rates were generally high—83.2% for patient identification, 94.2% for clinical history, 95.2%forimaging requests, and 94.9% for physician details—with UBTH performing better overall. Nevertheless, notable gaps, especially inpatient identification, were observed. Survey responses from21healthcare professionals revealed that incomplete forms often led to repeated tests, diagnostic errors, and operational inefficiencies. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed between the two facilities. These results highlight the importance of implementing electronic RRF systems, ongoing training for clinicians, and institutional policies to improve documentation. Such measures could enhance diagnostic precision, reduce unnecessary procedures, and improve patient safety.

Despite the importance of clinical postings in providing practical experience for radiography students of the University of Benin, various challenges hinder the students' ability to maximize the benefits of this experience. This study assessed the challenges faced by radiography students of the University of Benin during clinical postings. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted using a questionnaire distributed to 194 radiography students across three academic years. Reliability was established using Cronbach's alpha (0.71). Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28, employing descriptive statistics and ANOVA for hypothesis testing. The findings revealed that time constraints (88.7%), difficulty understanding complex procedures without guidance (85%), and limited access to equipment (74.2%) were the most significant challenges. These challenges negatively impacted students' hands-on experience, understanding of procedures, and overall progress in radiography education. Students primarily coped through self-directed learning (89.2%), seeking guidance from other healthcare professionals (82%), and peer support (73.2%). However, only 24.8% felt adequately prepared for professional practice. Demographic factors were analyzed using ANOVA to identify significant relationships with perceived challenges. Recommendations include restructuring clinical posting schedules, establishing formal mentorship programs, implementing simulation-based education, and reducing student-to-supervisor ratios. The study provides valuable insights for improving clinical education in radiography at the University of Benin

Computed Tomography (CT) has become indispensable in modern diagnostics, yet it exposes patients to relatively high doses of ionizing radiation that may pose long-term health risks. This study assessed the level of knowledge and awareness of radiation hazards among patients undergoing CT examinations in selected diagnostic facilities within Benin City, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted, and data were collected from 200 respondents using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. The instrument contained sections on demographic characteristics, knowledge of CT radiation, and awareness of radiation-related health risks. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests at a significance level of p < 0.05. Findings revealed generally poor knowledge of CT-related radiation among patients. Only 28.5% correctly identified that CT employs ionizing radiation, while 32% recognized that CT delivers higher doses than conventional X-rays. Awareness of the ALARA principle was particularly low (14%). Although 42% of respondents acknowledged that radiation could have internal health effects, many were uncertain about cumulative exposure risks and the vulnerability of pregnant women and children. Chi-square analysis showed significant associations between knowledge and demographic factors such as age (p = 0.014), educational level (p = 0.001), and occupation (p = 0.034), while gender showed no significant relationship (p = 0.072). The study concludes that most CT patients in Benin City possess inadequate knowledge and limited awareness of radiation hazards, which could hinder informed decision-making and safe imaging practices. It recommends that radiographers and radiologists provide structured pre-examination counseling, strengthen patient-education programs, and adopt policy-based communication standards to improve radiation literacy

Evaluation of radiography students’ clinical competence in positioning techniques at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) was conducted using a descriptive cross-sectional survey involving 206 clinical-year students (300, 400, and 500 levels). Self-assessment data were analyzed via T-tests and ANOVA to identify competence levels and influential factors within the clinical learning environment. The overall self-perceived competence mean was 2.80 (SD=0.91) on a 4-point scale, significantly above the moderate threshold (𝑝 < 0.001). Proficiency was uneven, showing strong performance in routine projections (Chest, 𝑀 = 3.19) but substantial weakness in specialized techniques (Contrast Studies, 𝑀 = 2.02).
Analysis revealed that despite high student ratings for supervision quality, primary structural barriers were the large number of students (57.3%) and uncooperative patients (48.1%), leading to limited hands-on opportunities (𝑀 = 2.53). A significant finding was that 71.4% of students reported anxiety regarding radiation exposure. The study concludes that structural constraints and psychosocial factors impede skill acquisition for complex procedures. Recommendations include institutional action to reduce the student-to-case ratio and the integration of mandatory simulation training to ensure graduates achieve consistent, independent positioning competence.

Introduction: Infertility is a global reproductive health challenge, and tubal blockage remains one of its major causes. Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is widely used for evaluating tubal patency. This study assessed the diagnostic efficacy of HSG in detecting tubal blockage among infertile women at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). Methodology: A retrospective study design was used. Archived HSG reports of 217 infertile women were retrieved from the Radiology Department, of which 200 met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted using a structured collection sheet and analysed with SPSS version 29. Descriptive statistics summarized the findings, while Chi- square tested associations between variables at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The mean age was 36.3 years, with most 107 (53.5%) aged 30-39 years. Secondary infertility was predominant 152 (76%), followed by primary infertility 38 (19%). Normal uterine cavities were observed in 90 (45%) women, while pelvic adhesions 45 (22.5%) and fibroids 37 (18.5%) were common abnormalities. The right and left fallopian tubes were blocked in 64 (32%) and 82 (41%) women, respectively. Overall, 88 (44%) had unilateral or bilateral tubal blockage, while 104 (52%) showed bilateral patency. Significant associations were found between age and type of infertility (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Secondary infertility and tubal blockage were prevalent among the women. HSG is still an effective and accessible procedure for evaluating tubal patency and uterine abnormalities in infertile women. However, its limitations including inability to detect peritoneal factors and lack of laparoscopic confirmation necessitate additional diagnostic methods. Keywords: Hysterosalpingography, infertility, tubal blockage, diagnostic efficacy, fallopian tubes.

Chest radiography is an important diagnostic method in evaluating thoracic diseases, especially among elderly patients where cardiovascular and pulmonary disorders are prevalent. However, the extent to which radiological findings correspond with clinicians’ preliminary diagnoses varies. This study assessed the correspondence between clinical and radiological diagnoses in chest X-ray examinations among elderly patients at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital.
A retrospective descriptive study was conducted using 204 chest X-ray records of patients aged 60 years and above. Data on age, gender, clinical diagnosis, radiological findings, and correspondence (Yes/No) were extracted and analyzed using SPSS version 29. Descriptive statistics summarized the data, while chi-square and independent-samples t-tests determined associations at a significance level of p < 0.05. The mean age of patients was 64.98 ± 5.20 years, with 138 (69.3%) females and 61 (30.7%) males. The most frequent clinical diagnosis was hypertension 37 (18.1%), while normal chest 65 (31.9%) was the commonest radiological finding. 130 (65.7%) of cases showed correspondence between clinical and radiological diagnoses. A significant association existed between clinical and radiological correspondence (χ² = 122.77, df = 83, p = 0.003). The t-test showed a significant difference in mean age between corresponding and non-corresponding groups (t(192) = -2.20, p = 0.029). A moderate to high diagnostic correspondence (65.7%) was observed, indicating that chest radiography remains valuable in confirming or excluding thoracic pathology among elderly patients. Diagnostic accuracy was higher among younger elderly patients (60–65 years) compared to those above 70 years

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, with radiographers playing a crucial role in TB diagnosis through chest radiography. However, gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding TB among radiographers may compromise both diagnostic quality and infection control. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of radiographers towards TB cases in selected hospitals in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 43 radiographers from University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Lily Hospital, and Raytouch Diagnostic Center. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi- square tests (p<0.05). The majority of respondents (88.4%) demonstrated good knowledge of TB transmission, symptoms, causation, diagnosis, and prevention. Most participants (83.7%) exhibited positive attitudes toward TB patients, with 83.7% acknowledging professional duty to care for TB cases and 93% agreeing TB patients deserve equal care. However, practice levels were lower, with only 48.8% demonstrating good adherence to universal precautions, while 32.6% showed fair practice and 18.6% poor practice. No statistically significant associations were found between demographic characteristics and KAP levels (p>0.05). While radiographers in Benin City possess adequate knowledge and positive attitudes toward TB, practice gaps exist in implementing universal precautions. Findings emphasize the need for continuous professional training, improved access to personal protective equipment, and strengthened infection control policies to enhance TB management and reduce occupational exposure risks.

Pediatric patients are particularly sensitive to ionizing radiation, making dose optimization and radiation protection essential during diagnostic imaging. This study assessed entrance skin doses (ESD) and radiation protection practices in pediatric X-ray examinations at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). Using a cross-sectional observational design, 164 pediatric patients aged 0-14 years undergoing routine X-ray examinations were observed between July and August 2025. Entrance skin doses were calculated using the indirect method based on exposure parameters and tube output specifications. Radiation protection practices were assessed using a structured checklist covering pediatric technical factors, beam collimation, patient positioning, protocols, beam quality, protective shielding, and exposure optimization. Mean ESDs exceeded international diagnostic reference levels across all examinations: chest X- rays (0.19 ± 0.08 mGy, 90% above reference), abdominal X-rays (0.58 ± 0.21 mGy, 93% above reference), skull X-rays (0.38 ± 0.13 mGy, 90% above reference), and limb X-rays (0.14 ± 0.06 mGy, 40% above reference). Only 14% of examinations achieved recommended dose levels. Overall radiation protection compliance was moderate at 63.9%, with only 11% demonstrating excellent practices. Critical deficiencies included protective shielding (51.7% compliance), weight-based technique selection (42.7%), and thyroid shielding (35.4%). A significant negative correlation existed between protection scores and entrance skin doses (r = -0.512, p = 0.001). The study concludes that pediatric X-ray doses at UBTH consistently exceed international standards, requiring urgent optimization interventions including establishing diagnostic reference levels, implementing standardized protocols, enhancing shielding practices, and conducting regular dose audits.

Clinical placements form a very integral component of radiography education; it is the link between theoretical knowledge and practical application. In recent years, the advancement in imaging technology such as Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and fluoroscopy amongst many others have required a higher level of technical proficiency from radiographers. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of clinical placement duration on University of Benin radiography students’ proficiency in carrying out advanced imaging modalities. A quantitative cross-sectional design was used to collect data from 300lv-500lv Radiography student of the university of Benin who had gone through clinical posting through a structured and validated questionnaire assessing socio-demographics, clinical placement duration, and student’s proficiency in performing advanced imaging modalities. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests (Chi-square) with a level of significance set at p< 0.05. A total of 208 radiography students participated inthe study, findings revealed a positive and statistically significant correlation between longer clinical placement duration and higher reported proficiency in CT and MRI (p<0.05), while the association was weaker for fluoroscopy and mammography. Students with ≥12 weeks cumulative posting in advanced imaging units demonstrated significantly higher confidence and task-execution ability compared to those with shorter exposure. Insufficient hands-on opportunity, equipment downtime and high patient load limiting student participation were reported as major constraints to skill acquisition. The study concludes that the duration and frequency of clinical placement have a significant impact on radiography students’ proficiency in performing advanced imaging procedures.