An Assessment of the Lead rubber aprons in Radiodiagnostic centres in South-South Nigeria

Abstract

Background of Study: Radiation protection is of core importance in radiodiagnostic centres, to keep both patients care givers and staff of the centres from stochastic and non- stochastic effects of radiation. The effectiveness and protectiveness of aprons are of valuable importance, it is therefore necessary to assess these aprons to ensure efficacy. Such quality checks have not been reported in the South – South region of Nigeria. Aim: To assess in terms of their quality and therefore protective features, the lead aprons in used radiology clinics in the South-South region of Nigeria. Method: Twenty two protective lead aprons from 18 radiological clinics in South-South Nigeria were directly exposed to X-rays with average factors of 70 ± 5kVp, 16 mAs and 100 cm Source to apron distance, with 43 x 35 cm cassettes places underneath to cover the upper (thoracic half) and the lower (abdominal half) respectively. Exposed films were processed in each centre following regular processing protocols to obtain radiographs with images of the state of the aprons. The images were analyzed on the basis of each apron’s lead equivalence (content), age, brand and the type of defects observed. Defects were characterized into cracks, tears, splits and rips. Physical examination for cleanliness, wear and tear was also carried out. Results: Results showed that 68% of all the aprons under study were defective, having cracks (44%), tears (33%), splits (15%) and/or rips (8%). About 73 % of the defective aprons had more than one (1) type of defect. Up to 87% of the defective aprons had no inherent lead equivalence and manufacturer identification indicated on them. It was observed that about 73% of these defects occurred in aprons of aged between 1-10 years with the area affected in the range of 1.00 – 1000.00 mm2 . Conclusion: Over two-thirds (⅔) of lead aprons found in diagnostic radiology centres in South – South Nigeria, have shown sufficient evidence of defects to suggest that they may not be useful for radiation protection of the users.

Quality Assurance of Personal Protective Apparel at Tertiary Hospitals in Yola, Adamawa State

“…The study also revealed that the most common type of defect is splits (separation) which account for 42.0% which differs from the results obtained in other studies where cracks were the major defects, accounting for 44% [16], 60% [15], 56.25% [13], and 70% [17]. The protective apparel's integrity deteriorates as it ages; however, the level of damage observed on the aprons was not necessarily dependent on the age of the apron but may also be attributed to poor handling by the users, as folding and dropping of aprons were observed in some of the hospitals, which could be one of the major causes of rips, cracks, and holes in the protective apparel.…”

“…About 11 (92%) of the defects observed exceeded the maximum area 15 mm 2 and 10 cm 2 for rejection and replacement as recommended by Lambert & McKeon [12] and Duran & Phillips [20], as well as Sam & Pillay [4], which states that the maximum tolerable length of a defect on a whole-body garment with the lead equivalent of 0.25 mm, 0.35 mm, and 0.5 mm should not exceed 5.4 cm, 5.6 cm, and 5.9 cm respectively. Furthermore, about 83.0% of defects were noticed in protective apparel with no manufacturer's name, which is in tandem with what was recorded by Ukpong [16], who reported 81% of defects found on the apron with no manufacturer's name.…”

Conformity Assessment of Lead Aprons Used in Conventional Radiology: A Multi-Centre Survey in Togo

“…In studies by Oyar O et al in Turkey [6] and Ryu Sung J et al in South Korea [8], leaded aprons were used for less than 6 years. On the other hand, Ukpong E. V. et al [5] found in their series aprons that had been in use for more than 40 years. This shows that recommendations NF C 74-100 and C EI61-331-3 are not respected in Africa.…”

“…This sample is representative in view of the samples from similar studies. The study by Ukpong et al [5] involved 22 leaded aprons. The study by Ryu Sung et al [8] involved 71 leaded aprons and 27 thyroid protectors.…”

“…A routine annual check is therefore recommended to assess the conformity of leaded aprons [4]. Studies carried out in Nigeria and Turkey have shown that some aprons may develop defects during use, rendering them non-compliant and potentially exposing staff to radiation [5] [6].…”