https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/129097 Sun, 26 Apr 2026 01:05:19 GMT 2026-04-26T01:05:19Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145902 Title: Establishing image quality criteria for lateral knee radiographs Abstract: Introduction Lateral knee radiographs are frequently performed x-ray projections with a high retake rate. A reason for lateral knee radiograph retakes is inconsistent imaging protocols. A variation in the literature exists regarding the image quality criteria required for lateral knee radiographs. Purpose of the study The purpose of the study was to establish an image quality criteria list for lateral knee radiographs. A standardised list would make it easier for radiographers to decide whether an image should be retaken or not. Methodology This study was conducted at a public general hospital in Malta. A prospective research design was used to collect quantitative data. This study was divided into three parts. The first part of the study consisted of the collection of 25 lateral knee radiographs. In the second part, image quality criteria for lateral knee radiographs were drawn up and validated by experts in the field. The third part of the study consisted of the distribution of the research tool to radiographers and orthopaedic surgeons. The participants were asked whether they would keep or retake 25 lateral knee radiographs according to the established criteria. The extent to which every criterion was met was rated using a 4-point Likert scale. The Mann-Whitney test was used to compare mean rating scores provided to every criterion related to image quality in this study. Results A total of 21 participants filled in the research tool. The participants consisted of 16 radiographers and 5 orthopaedic surgeons. Based on the clinical study results, the six main image quality criteria for lateral knee radiographs, in order of importance, obtained from this study were the following: 1. The knee joint is seen in the lateral position as evidenced by the superimposition of the femoral condyles. 2. The patella can be seen in lateral profile with joint space between the patella and femur well demonstrated. 3. The patella is projected clear of the femur. 4. The proximal tibia slightly superimposes the head of the fibula. 5. The knee joint is in the centre of the collimated field. 6. Fat pad and sharp trabecular markings. Conclusions This study identified an image quality criteria list that may assist radiographers when determining if retakes of lateral knee radiographs are necessary or not. However, further research is required by using a larger sample size and conducting the study in different medical imaging departments. Description: B.Sc. (Hons)(Melit.) Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145902 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145901 Title: Benefits and challenges of the new MR Linac service implemented at the local oncology department : a radiographers’ perspective Abstract: Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the perception of the radiographers on the benefits and challenges associated with the introduction of the magnetic resonance linear accelerator (MR Linac) at the local oncology hospital. Methodology: All radiographers working at the local oncology department were invited to complete a self-designed questionnaire consisting mostly of Likert scale questions ranging from 1 to 5 and some open-ended questions. The radiographers were asked to rate the benefits and challenges of the MR Linac for specific areas. In addition, the radiographers were also asked to indicate their confidence in performing specific tasks, their perceptions on a radiographer-led workflow, and the additional resources required to improve the services. Finally, the radiographers were asked to indicate their confidence in performing specific tasks on the MR Linac and their views on introducing a radiographer-led workflow. The quantitative data was summarized using descriptive statistics, while the open-ended questions were analysed using content analysis. Results: Out of the 26 invited radiographers, 15 completed the questionnaire. The use of ultra-hypofractionation and the reduction of dose to the healthy OARs were identified as the main benefits of this technology, while the prolonged treatment time was identified as the main barrier. The overall level of confidence using the MR Linac was 2.73 +/- 1.22. The radiographers were least confident in managing technical and safety issues and most confident in positioning patients. The majority of the radiographers (53.3%) agreed that a radiographer-led workflow could improve treatment efficiency, provided that this was introduced gradually following adequate training. Contouring software based on artificial intelligence was identified by most radiographers as required to streamline the workflow. Conclusion: Despite challenges faced, radiographers expressed optimism about the integration of this technology in practice. However, more training is required to improve service delivery and facilitate the introduction of a radiographer-led workflow. Description: B.Sc. (Hons)(Melit.) Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145901 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145900 Title: Language barrier challenges in multi-lingual radiography setting : impact on effective patient communication Abstract: Introduction Malta’s health-care system now serves a highly multicultural population, with a 2023 net migration of 20,960 predominantly non-EU newcomers. This linguistic diversity challenges radiographers, who must obtain accurate histories, give precise procedural instructions, and secure informed consent within very brief patient encounters. The present dissertation investigated the primary language-barrier challenges faced by radiographers in a large public hospital, assessed their perceived impact on communication, and explored demographic and organisational factors that shape these experiences. Methods A validated, cross-sectional questionnaire was distributed to 28 qualified radiographers. The sample was chiefly young (21-30 years) and female, mirroring the department’s workforce profile. Respondents reported strong proficiency in Maltese and English but limited competence in other languages. Results The most salient barrier was time pressure during patient encounters (mean = 3.96), indicating that workflow constraints frequently curtail thorough explanations. Systemic shortcomings followed: under-utilization of multilingual staff (mean = 3.11) and limited availability of professional interpreter services (mean = 3.00). Participants indicated that language barriers markedly reduced patient comprehension (mean = 4.57) and the ability to address patient concerns (mean = 4.39). Open-ended comments revealed reliance on ad-hoc interpreters, family members or bilingual colleagues, raising concerns about confidentiality, accuracy, and increased repeat imaging. Younger radiographers perceived time constraints more acutely; gender differences were modest and not statistically significant. These findings align with broader European literature that attributes communication breakdowns primarily to organizational, rather than individual, language deficits. Conclusions Language barriers in Maltese radiography are fundamentally systemic. Heavy workloads, insufficient interpreter infrastructure, and the lack of formal mechanisms to mobilize existing multilingual staff erode effective radiographer-patient dialogue, compromising safety, increasing repeat examinations, and elevating radiation exposure. Implications for Practice 1. Centralized interpreter service: Implement an on-demand, professional medical interpreter platform integrated into radiology workflows. 2. Curricular and CPD integration: Embed mandatory cross-cultural communication and interpreter-use training in undergraduate radiography programs and continuing professional development. 3. Scheduling redesign: Adjust appointment-booking protocols to allocate additional time for patients requiring interpretation, ensuring comprehensive explanations without sacrificing departmental efficiency. Description: B.Sc. (Hons)(Melit.) Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145900 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145899 Title: Radiographers’ role and practice in suspected cases of child physical abuse in Malta Abstract: Purpose: To investigate the role and practice of radiographers in the detection and management of Suspected Child Physical Abuse (SCPA) in Malta. Methodology: A non-experimental, cross-sectional and prospective research design employing a quantitative approach was adopted. Data was collected through a self designed online questionnaire, which was distributed to radiographers working within the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department of the public general hospital, as well as Primary Health Care (PHC) Centres across Malta. Results: A total of 36 radiographers from a target population of 44 completed the questionnaire, yielding a response rate of 81.8%. Radiographers demonstrated an understanding of the concept of determining SCPA, with 61.1% acknowledging the detection and reporting of such cases as an important aspect of their role. However, 83.4% had limited familiarity with the radiological signs of SCPA. While 77.8% indicated they would report suspected cases, only 41.7% were aware of a legal obligation to report. Furthermore, 63.9% were unaware of established departmental protocols/guidelines for managing such cases. While 77.8% expressed confidence in producing high-quality images for legal purposes, many felt that they were only moderately competent (55.6%) in providing court tesmony. Half of the participants had not received any training, and 66.7% were unaware of available training opportunities. Despite this, 83.3% expressed the importance of specialised training in SCPA, with 94.4% supporting the idea that mandatory periodic training programmes for radiographers should be implemented. Conclusions: Effective management of SCPA relies on the radiographers’ ability to accurately detect and report such cases. This study reveals variability in skills and awareness, which may hinder timely and effective intervention, emphasising the need for ongoing training and clear procedural guidance to support radiographers in fulfilling their safeguarding responsibilities. Implications for Practice: Although most radiographers acknowledged their role in SCPA, this study revealed gaps in knowledge, awareness and adherence to protocols, as well as inconsistent abilities in detecting radiographic signs of SCPA. Furthermore, a lack of awareness regarding their legal obligations to report such cases was also evident. Therefore, relevant stakeholders should prioritise the development and periodic delivery of structured training. Once established, this training can be integrated into mandatory CPD courses to strengthen radiographers’ competence in the detection, management, and reporting of SCPA, ultimately enhancing child protection outcomes. Description: B.Sc. (Hons) (Melit.) Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145899 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z