Evaluation of the errors frequency in the acquisition of panoramic radiographs in an oral radiology service

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of errors in the acquisition of panoramic radiographs in an oral radiology service. Three hundred and thirty radiographies repeated in a three-year period were analyzed. Two observers registered, individually, all the errors observed in each one of the radiographs. When opinions were different, the radiographs were assessed in order to get a consensus among examiners. It was found a repetition rate of 8.65% in the period, with an average of 2.07 errors per radiography. The most frequent errors were those related to patient positioning, but it was also observed poor quality images resulting from incorrect adjustment of exposing factors. These results led us to conclude that the quality pattern of the service is in accordance with the Guidelines on Radiology Standards for Primary Dental Care. Key words: Panoramic radiography. Quality control.