bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Having a Mammogram: How does it feel?
Authors: Poulos Ann 
Published: October 2013

ABSTRACTUnderstanding women's responses to having a mammogram is important for radiographers and other health professionals. These responses are also essential for determining descriptors in rating scales used in research studies. The purpose of this reported study was to determine whether discomfort or pain is an appropriate descriptor for the mammography experience. An appropriate descriptor is essential so that accurate information can be provided to women undergoing mammography as well as to health professionals who encourage women to attend for breast screening by mammography. The study also aimed to explore the components of this descriptor by asking the women to identify perceived differences between discomfort and pain as they related to having a mammogram. From these differences a precise description of how it feels to have a mammogram was constructed.Thirty women attending for routine breast screening at BreastScreen NSW Central and Eastern Sydney participated in the study and were given a questionnaire which focussed on their perceptions of the pain/discomfort of the mammography experience. The results suggested that discomfort is a more appropriate descriptor of the mammography experience. Categorisation of the perceived differences between discomfort and pain revealed important new information for mammographic practice.
The Radiographer's impact on improving Clinical Decision‐making, Patient Care and Patient Diagnosis: A pilot study
Authors: Lam Daniel , Egan Ingrid , Baird Marilyn 
Published: October 2013

ABSTRACTAimThis pilot study attempts to quantify the benefits of a documented radiographic clinical history through the use of the clinical history template form designed by Egan and Baird.MethodSix radiographers completed the clinical history template for 40 patients and four radiologists included the recorded information as part of their reporting process. A focus discussion group was held between the radiographers to ascertain the level of satisfaction and benefits encountered with the use of the template form. A questionnaire was designed for the radiologists to complete regarding the usefulness of the template form with respect to the radiological reporting process.Results/Discussion15 cases for which the form was used demonstrated a direct benefit in respect to improved radiographic clinical decision‐making. Radiographers agreed the template form aided the establishment of a stronger radiographer‐patient relationship during the radiographic examination. Two radiologists agreed the form aided in establishing a radiological diagnosis and suggested the form be implemented as part of the standard departmental protocol.ConclusionDespite the small sample size, there is evidence the form aided radiographic decision‐making and assisted in the establishment of an accurate radiological diagnosis. The overall consensus amongst radiographers was that it enhanced radiographer‐patient communication and improved the level of patient care.
Magnetic resonance of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Lavery Peter B 
Published: October 2013

AbstractThe following work aims to assess the feasibility of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique in the assessment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). At present, three modalities have proven to be worthy in this application. These are general radiography, computerised tomography (CT) and MRI. General radiography and CT have been the traditional methods, but carry some significant disadvantages including the use of ionising radiation. MRI, given its reliability, accuracy and lack of ionising radiation, has become the modality of choice for a wide range of applications including neurological and spinal conditions. In this study, measurements of axial images of the scoliotic spine were performed and inter‐observer variations were compared. The study, using MRI techniques, demonstrated favourable and promising results. In four of the measurements performed, absolutely no variations were found. The study also demonstrated a high positive correlation between curve data obtained from general radiography, and the curve data from those same patients using 3D coronal MRI imaging.
The first year clinical placement for undergraduate medical radiation science students: tool or toil?
Authors: Currie Geoffrey M , Wheat Janelle M 
Published: October 2013

AbstractIntroduction While academic learning has been widely reported in the literature to provide benefits to clinical learning, little has been reported with regard to the benefits clinical learning extends to a students academic progress. One might question whether a reduction in or abolition of first year clinical placements might negatively impact on the understanding a student gains in theoretical learning which, in turn, might undermine clinical skill development.Methodology A test/retest study design was employed to assess the academic performance of a cohort of first year medical radiation science students immediately prior to and after their first clinical placement.Results Matched pairs of test one and test two scores for each student demonstrated a strong positive correlation with a correlation coefficient of 0.70. Bland‐Altman analysis demonstrated a mean difference between test one and test two matched pairs (Δ score) of 9.1% (95% CI: 4.7% to 13.6%). The paired t test demonstrated statistically significant differences between matched pairs (P = 0.0002). Lower student GPA (P = 0.02), UAI/TER (P < 0.001) and test one scores (P < 0,001) were predictive of a positive Δ score while test two scores (P = 0.59) and gender (P = 0.39) were not shown to be predictive of the Δ score.Conclusion This study demonstrates that clinical learning provides the context in which the majority of students can better understand theory. Significant value is gained from first year clinical placements of medical radiation science undergraduates at Charles Sturt University to improve academic marks via fostering deeper understanding and reinforcement of theory. This may provide a ‘flow on’ effect, improving clinical skill development in subsequent clinical placements, further reinforcing understanding.
Effects of iodinated contrast media on radiation therapy dosimetry for pathologies within the thorax
Authors: Kimlin K. , Mitchell J. , Knight R.T. 
Published: October 2013

AbstractThe aim of this study was to establish whether the presence of iodinated contrast within the tissues of the treatment region leads to inaccurate dose representation during radiation therapy dose calculations. We reviewed the radiation therapy planning computed tomography (CT) scans for 20 previously treated lung cancer patients where both contrast and non‐contrast CT scans had been performed. Planning had been carried out on the non‐contrast scan. Plans were replicated to the contrast CT series and dosimetry was compared between the two plans. To account for differences in respiration and therefore lung volume between the two CT series, lung tissue was assigned a density equivalent to water. The overall data collected from this method showed that, for all chest plans examined, the presence of contrast affected the resultant dosimetry by up to ± 1.5% when compared to the identical non‐contrast plan. Even when lung tissue was not assigned a density equivalent to water, the average effect of contrast was minimal, however, these results are not solely from the presence of contrast as there were additional lung volume discrepancies. In conclusion, the effect of the presence of contrast on dosimetry for lung cancer treatment is negligible.
The significance of bonding/networking as a professional
Authors: Merchant Susan P. 
Published: October 2013

AbstractThe importance of ongoing professional development is increasing in significance as radiation therapists strive for greater recognition as professionals. Networking is one aspect to consider in this process, with scientific meetings becoming important tools to encourage radiation therapists' passion for their chosen profession. To embrace the changes taking place in health it is important to outline the significance of communication and education and the increasing need for commitment to continuing professional development (CPD). Radiation therapy depends on teamwork locally, nationally and internationally. Conferences, seminars and workshops can provide excellent avenues for bonding/networking with likeminded colleagues and allied health professionals and can contribute to a united approach in the treatment of cancer. Both the scientific program and social events of these meetings often bring together industry and clinical professionals providing a safe environment for the exchange of information, ideas and the potential to enhance problem‐solving skills. The importance of encouraging attendance at conferences, seminars and workshops is one aspect of CPD where networking can instigate the forging of bonds, friendships and collaborations that lead to changes in the profession.
Tin foil modified electron radiation of the skin of the nose
Authors: Arancini Wendy D , Brackenridge Sharon A 
Published: October 2013

AbstractRadiation therapy to the skin of the nose for non‐melanoma skin cancer is common in Australia yet presents numerous dosimetric and practical challenges. A tin foil modified electron (TME) radiation technique has been used routinely at Perth Radiation Oncology since 2001. The development of this technique over an extended period involving almost 100 cases is reported and key processes at simulation, planning and treatment delivery are described. A summary of major clinical outcomes is presented for 53 patients treated with TME between 2001 and 2005.
Theory of reflection in learning for radiation therapists
Authors: Chapman Naomi , Dempsey Shane E. , Warren‐Forward Helen M. 
Published: October 2013

AbstractPracticing reflectively can assist the radiation therapist to monitor their work, foster professional growth and encourage currency of skills. Reflection is an attractive and desirable component to a radiation therapist's skill base. To provide radiation therapists the skills necessary to engage in reflection, they need a basic understanding of the theory underpinning reflection and reflective practice, and how they can be applied in the context of radiation therapy. This paper discusses the modern pioneers of reflective theory, as well as the concepts surrounding reflection and professional practice. The concepts central to experiential learning and the role reflection plays in the experiential learning cycle are described. This paper supports the role of reflection in the radiation oncology workplace and simplifies the theories of reflection described in the literature. It is the first step towards facilitating and supporting skill development in reflective thinking for clinical radiation therapists.
The potential use of intensity‐modulated radiation therapy in the management of early‐stage gynaecologic malignancies
Authors: Ta M , Jones L , Frantzis J , Sisson T , Middleton M 
Published: October 2013

AbstractIntroduction A literature review was conducted to establish if intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) planning and treatment enhances current whole pelvic radiation therapy (WPRT) practices for early‐stage gynaecological malignancies.Our purpose was to determine if IMRT implementation at a small radiation therapy centre is feasible, and warranted, given the issues of potentially small patient numbers and limited resources.Method A literature review was undertaken to identify relevant articles that dealt with the advantages and disadvantages of IMRT for gynaecological malignancies, and accessed through online journal search engines. Early stage gynaecological malignancy patients, treated in 2006, were identified through Varian (Palo Alto, CA, USA) Varis Vision database. Patients undertaking WPRT with brachytherapy (BT) regime were the only patients considered as suitable candidates for IMRT.Results IMRT reduces toxicity to relevant organs at risk (OAR) such as small bowel (40–70%), rectum (10–66%), bladder (30–46%) and bone marrow (50–60%), but uncertainties exist in the ability to accurately delineate gross tumour volume (GTV) and OAR. Sixteen patients, 1.6% of all patients seen in 2006 at W P Holman Clinic Hobart, Tasmania received treatment to the primary gynaecological tumour alone. Out of this sixteen, seven (0.9%) patients received radical external beam radiation therapy only, four (0.5%) received further dose‐escalation treatment with BT. One patient, due to co‐morbidities was unable to undergo BT. Therefore, five (0.6%) of the patients were potential candidates for IM‐WPRT.Conclusion IMRT planning for early‐stage gynaecological malignancies enhances IM‐WPRT technique and reduces dose to OAR, therefore increasing the therapeutic ratio. At present, IMRT planning and treatment does not consider daily OAR motion and GTV shrinkage for these patients. Multiple imaging modalities provide such valuable information.IMRT implementation for early‐stage gynaecological malignancies in a small radiation therapy centre, of two linear accelerators, is hindered by limited imaging modalities. From the data collected in this study, gynaecological patient numbers are not sufficient to warrant purchase of all required imaging modalities.
How can reporting guidelines help you write your research findings?
Authors: Agustin Cherry 
Published: October 2013

AbstractPoorly reported research can potentially lead to misleading conclusions. This can result in inappropriate application of research findings and future research direction. For this reason, reporting guidelines are used by scientific writers and medical peer reviewers to ensure that the relevant information is published. This paper will introduce the reporting guidelines of qualitative studies, quality improvement projects, observational studies, randomised controlled trials and meta‐analyses.
Theoretical analysis of comparative patient skin dose and exposure technique approaches in planar radiography
Authors: Garbett IT 
Published: October 2013

AbstractA theoretical analysis of patient skin dose changes with manipulation of technique factors (mAs and kV) was carried out in order to obtain a description of the relationship between patient dose and the exposure technique approach employed. The standard exposure technique approaches in variable part thickness radiography of “fixed kVp” and “variable kVp” and the “15% rule” in constant part thickness radiography were analysed in terms of the changes in patient skin dose. Analytical expressions describing the variation of dose change ratios have been developed in respect of each approach and also in comparison between the two standard approaches. The resultant model is limited to essentially qualitative predictions due to its inherent limitation of neglecting secondary radiation at the entrance site of the beam, but nevertheless indicates some non intuitive benefits in utilisation of mAs (only) changes in compensating for the thinner part and for lower image densities, as well as indicating that most gain is to be had (in terms of lower skin dose), where only modest part thickness compensation is required. The model also describes the influence of the chosen voltage in a “reference technique” (upon which further compensatory changes in exposure factors are based) on the patient skin dose, when the variable kV approach is utilised.
A retrospective pilot study of the performance of mammographers in interpreting screening mammograms
Authors: Moran S , Warren‐Forward H 
Published: October 2013

AbstractPurpose: This paper provides pilot data from one Breast Screening Program on whether mammographers have the ability to review mammograms with similar accuracy to screen readers. Methods: The participant group consisted of 11 mammographers (experienced in assessing images for technical adequacy, but no specialised training for detecting abnormalities) and three current screen readers employed at Hunter BreastScreen. Fifty sets of mammograms performed during 2003 were used in the retrospective study. The mammograms were chosen to represent a range of review outcomes. Each participant reviewed each set of mammograms using the BreastScreen Australia assessment scale; these results were then categorised into two groups – Rescreen or Recall. The consensus review outcome of the original screen readers was used as the “Gold Standard”. Patient outcome was assessed by following up on the results of any histology or pathology tests in 2003 or the 2006 screening results. Results: Compared with the Gold Standard outcomes, the three current screen reader participants had sensitivity values of 67%, 83% and 94%; mammographer sensitivity values ranged from 61% to 89%. Specificity for the screen reader participants was 81%, 84% and 87% and mammographers ranged from 45% to 97%. Accuracy for the three screen readers was 76%, 84% and 90% while the mammographers attained between 55% and 86%. Conclusion: Without any training, the sensitivity obtained by three mammographers and the specificity obtained by six mammographers were similar to those of the current screen reader participants. Accuracy rates of the mammographers indicate that screen reading by selected and appropriately trained mammographers may be feasible.
Assessment of motion and field placement verification of the prostate using gold seed fiducial markers: a feasibility study
Authors: Brown AL , Day EL 
Published: October 2013

AbstractPurpose: The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of using gold seed fiducial markers within the daily treatment of prostate cancer patients as a means of improving treatment field placement accuracy and minimising the effect of interfractional prostate movement. Methods: Ten patients had three fiducial markers inserted into the prostate gland under ultrasound guidance. Daily verification images were acquired throughout standard radiation therapy treatment with the measurement, comparison and analysis of bony anatomy displacement to fiducial marker displacement performed. Results: Greater than 20% of measurements in the superior/inferior (SI), anterior/posterior (AP) directions and displacement magnitude, would have resulted in a different action when using bony anatomy compared to fiducial markers, compared to less than 3% in the right/left (RL) direction. The mean prostate displacement was 0.46, 1.52 and 1.75 mm in the LR, SI, and AP directions respectively. The maximum prostate displacement was 10, 16 and 18 mm in the LR, SI, and AP directions respectively. Mean displacement magnitude was 6.32 mm, with a maximum displacement magnitude of 18 mm. Conclusion: This trial supports the growing body of evidence that there is benefit in the use of daily imaging with prostatic gold seed fiducial markers for more accurate treatment localisation.
Professional development workshops for graduate practitioners in radiation therapy: identifying preferred topics with the nominal group technique
Authors: Downie J , Findlay N , Oultram S 
Published: October 2013

AbstractPurpose: Each year, graduate practitioner radiation therapists (RTs) participate in the NSW Professional Development Year (PDY) Programme by attending workshops focused on continuing professional development. The main aim of this project was to determine what topics graduate practitioner RTs want presented in these workshops. Secondary aims were to determine what graduate practitioner RTs hoped to achieve from these workshops and determine how involved graduate practitioner RTs want to be in the organisation of these workshops. Methods: During one of these workshops, the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) was used to investigate these questions and allowed for a list of responses to be generated by individuals undertaking their PDY in 2009. The responses for each question were ranked by the group to determine what the favourable responses were. Results: Responses showed that topics related to future careers, patient care and personal development were favoured by the group. These topics were reflected again in the question addressing what graduate practitioner RTs hoped to achieve from the workshop, with graduate practitioner RTs hoping to learn about future job opportunities and how to better care for patients. In regards to involvement in the day, the NGT found that graduate practitioner RTs want to work with the Radiation Therapy Educator (RTE) to contribute to the workshop. Conclusion: These results may prove helpful for RTEs in the planning of future PDY workshops to ensure the learning needs of graduate practitioner RTs are met.
Evaluation of Silverman® and Posifix® headrests for head and neck immobilisation
Authors: Lamprecht B 
Published: October 2013

AbstractPurpose: The accurate delivery of intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), volumetric‐modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and conformal head and neck (H&N) radiotherapy (RT) relies on patient stabilisation. With the multitude of products and variations available, it is imperative to investigate which product or combination of products offer the most optimal immobilisation. This quality improvement paper investigates the feasibility of using Posifix® (Civco Medical Solutions, Iowa, USA) headrests compared with Silverman® (Civco Medical Solutions, Iowa, USA) headrests in H&N RT stabilisation. This investigation is based on the hypothesis that foam Posifix® headrests may improve stabilisation and reproducibility as compared with the rigid plastic cast moulds of Silverman® headrests. Methods: A retrospective group of 12 consecutive patients (six Silverman® and six Posifix®) were used to evaluate the accuracy of positioning from planning to treatment. In the assessment, 204 treatment portal images were matched to planning digitally reconstructed radiographs (DRR). The resultant shifts were documented for anterior/posterior and lateral films. For all three directions; left/right, anterior/posterior and superior/inferior (x, y and z) set‐up deviations from the planning DRR were measured and averaged. A change in patient position by removal or addition of plastic spacers (shims) was collated from the treatment set‐up sheet. Results: A total of 33 shifts of ≥ 3 mm were required for Silverman® headrests compared with 11 for Posifix® headrests. Total shim adjustments made were 10 and 0 for Silverman® and Posifix® headrests respectively. Conclusion: Using Posifix® headrests reduced shifts of ≥ 3 mm and patient set‐up adjustments. As a result, Posifix® headrests have been implemented as part of the department's protocol for head and neck patient positioning.
Australian radiation therapy: an overview — Part one
Authors: Merchant SP , Halkett GKB , Sale C 
Published: October 2013

AbstractIntroduction: Over the last century radiation therapy has developed and improved in many facets of treatment delivery. Radiation therapy is now recognised as an important treatment modality for malignant disease. Continued research and development has gradually changed the general medical opinion of radiation therapy. It is now recommended that more than 50% of all cancer patients receive radiation therapy. Background: The development of radiation therapy personnel in Australia started with doctors' assistants arising from a practical need in the application of treatment. This assistant role gradually extended to a more technical role and saw the birth of the radiation therapist [originally known as radiotherapy technician; therapy radiographer]. The historical progress of this profession in Australia is important to understand for further role development and enhancement of radiation therapists. It is also significant if the profession is to embrace the changes in medical approaches, particularly in oncology, where a bio‐psychosocial model of health is rapidly becoming the preferred approach. Part one outlines the history and development of Australian radiation therapy from the discovery of radiation until today. Part two is a subsequent paper providing discussion of Australian radiation therapists' perspectives on the radiation therapy workplace and work‐practices from 1960 until today.