Gonad Protection During Paediatric Abdomen and Pelvic X-Ray Examinations

Background: Evidence suggests that children are more susceptible to radiation risks or hazards. In particular, their gonads are more sensitive to the effects of radiation, especially at or below reproductive age. Protecting the gonads of children and adults is of particular importance to the imaging. Aim: To investigate level of the use of gonad protection during paediatric abdomen and pelvic X-ray examinations in the Accra metropolis. Method: A quantitative, descriptive and cross sectional survey were applied where systematic random sampling was used to select five hospitals from Accra Metropolis (Ghana) that provided radiological services and had permanent radiographers. Three different tools were used in the study for data collection: observation, questionnaire and evaluation of pediatric radiographs of abdomen and pelvis. Results: A total of 44 out of 46 Radiographers recruited in five hospitals completed the questionnaire and were also involved in the observational study. The study achieved a 95.65% response rate. It was identified that 46% (n=20) of the radiographers reported they had no gonad shields in their department. Few departments (13%) had no shields at all and 39% (n=17) of the respondents applied gonad shields only on male sexes. Although there were no laid down policies in the departments surveyed 55% of the respondents reported they were aware of policies regarding the use of gonad shields. Conclusion: It appears that there are no standardised national policies on radiation protection in general for hospitals to follow and so it is absent in the imaging departments. This has affected the availability of gonad shields and adherence to its application to protect patients. To improve quality diagnostic imaging service, there is the urgent need for management to pay serious attention to patient protection especially children against unnecessary exposure to ionising radiation during X-ray procedures. Hospital management must communicate the relevant policies and local rules concerning radiation protection in particular the use of gonad shield to protect children.