https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/51497 2026-04-27T05:55:59Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/111217 Title: Guidance for radiographers providing forensic services in Malta Abstract: Introduction: In the majority of cases where there is a suspicious or accidental death, radiographers are required to perform planar x-ray imaging of the cadaver or body part. Research Objectives: The research objectives of this study were to explore what are the procedures which are followed in forensic imaging locally and to explore what the stakeholders in forensic medicine think should be included in the guidelines which the researcher intended to create for the radiographers in Malta. Also, the main aim of this study was to create a set of guidelines which radiographers in Malta could follow before and during imaging, so as to ensure that appropriate procedures are continuously followed and to safeguard the preservation of vital forensic evidence. Methodology: This study was conducted using a cross-sectional, non-experimental survey design. A structured interview designed for forensic experts, together with a questionnaire designed for the radiographers, were utilised for the collection of data which aided in the formulation of guidelines for radiographers performing forensic imaging. Results: The findings of this study indicated that radiographers felt that guidelines would be useful in their work especially for standardisation purposes, even though it has to be acknowledged that not all radiographers were in favour of the formation and implementation of such guidelines. After the data collection, it could also be concluded that forensic imaging guidelines as well as forensic imaging training is needed since not all radiographers were constant in their answers about procedures and about their knowledge on the subject. Conclusion: From the data collected, the researcher found out the procedures that are followed in forensic imaging cases in Malta and with this data, the researcher compiled a set of forensic imaging guidelines that could be adopted in the Medical Imaging Department. Description: B.SC.(HONS)RADIOGRAPHY 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/53940 Title: The accuracy and reliability of digital templating in total knee replacement. Abstract: Templates are used in the preoperative planning of many orthopaedic procedures. The magnification of the bones on preoperative radiographs can vary, despite using standardised radiological techniques. Purpose The purpose of the study is to determine the reliability of preoperative templating in total knee replacement. Methodology Initially, a sample of 17 patients who had undergone total knee replacement, were collected. Anteroposterior and lateral radiographs were taken and digitally templated. The measurements of the implant judged by templating were then compared with the measurements of the implant used during surgery. Results The overall results showed that there was no significant difference between the templated measurements and those of the implant used during surgery. Therefore it was confirmed that templating is significant in total knee replacement. Conclusion As there was no significant difference templating was proved to be significant when allowing a discrepancy of one size above and below. Therefore surgeons are able to store an implant with the size of the templated measurement and implants which are a size above and below. Description: B.SC.(HONS)RADIOGRAPHY 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/53849 Title: Radiographers and non-accidental injuries. : a Maltese perspective. Abstract: Introduction The importance of medical imaging in detecting non-accidental injuries (NAI) has long been discovered and yet it still plays a major role in NAI detection nowadays. However, in order for NAI cases to be detected, radiographers should be aware of both the radiological and clinical signs of abuse. This can only be achieved with adequate training and awareness on the manifestations of abuse. Objectives The aims of the study were to explore the knowledge that radiographers have with regards to NAI as well as to determine whether radiographers recognize their role in this area. The study also aimed to discover whether any protocols governing radiographers and NAI existed locally. Methodology The research design used for the study was a descriptive, non-experimental survey, whereby both quantitative and qualitative data was collected by means of a questionnaire. The study was carried out on 84 radiographers working at a general hospital in Malta as well as those working in Primary Health Centres. Results Results from the questionnaires show that radiographers lack knowledge in the area of NAI even though national statistics show that NAI are on the increase. Whilst the minority of radiographers recognize that their role goes beyond producing radiographic images of patients suspected with NAI, the majority agree that training in this area is necessary. Conclusions As a conclusion one can say that further training is needed with regards to how radiographers should deal and image patients suspected with NAI as well as the setting up of clear guidelines to be followed when radiographers are faced with such situations. Description: B.SC.(HONS)RADIOGRAPHY 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/53734 Title: Compliance of breast screening in Malta. Abstract: Objective This research study was designed to investigate the various reasons why women decide to attend or not attend to the National Breast Screening Centre. Methodology The research tools utilised in this study were a face to face interview with attendees, and a telephone interview with non-attendees which were formulated by the researcher herself A form which is sent by non-attendees for the cancellation of their appointment of breast screening was also analysed for the reasons for non-attendance to the NBSU. This served as another data collection tool used in this study. Results Results showed that most non-attendees prefer to be examined privately whilst most attendees did their mammogram because they were concerned about their health. The analysis of the data showed that the principal reason highlighted in the cancellation form was that women do not see any point in breast screening. Conclusions This study showed that the importance of more breast cancer and breast screening awareness by nurses, doctors and other health care providers is essential so that the overall system is improved and the compliance rate is increased. Description: B.SC.(HONS)RADIOGRAPHY 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z