Image Quality Improvement for Panorex Imaging in a Hospital Radiology Department

Authors

Miranda J. Mares
Andrew K. Griner

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

3-6-2020

Abstract

Background/Conceptual framework

Panoramic Imaging is a popular method of imaging dental anatomy. This type of imaging is not only done in dental offices but also within hospital radiology departments. Although mandible imaging using a Panorex machine seems pretty straight forward and simple to perform, we discovered various issues leading to image distortion and overall poor quality. Our Technologists were unhappy because they lacked the knowledge to fix the issue and our Radiologists were unhappy because we were provided non-diagnostic imaging.

Purpose of the project/Innovation

Radiology Panorex imaging at our hospital was less than proficient. Technologists avoided doing Panorex exams due to lack of comfort and knowledge. Images were severely blurred in the center, obstructing the view of the teeth and gum lines. TMJS were being cut off with no understanding of how to fix. Artifacts projecting over either the top or bottom teeth were impossible for the Radiologists to read.

Materials and Methods

Research of common positioning errors lead to some testing to see if the positioning adjustments to the patients would create quality images. Once we knew how to fix the midline blur, teeth artifact obstruction, and TMJ cutoff, we presented our findings at staff meetings and created cheat sheets to store in the Panorex room. One on one training was provided for each technologist.

Results

Implementation of the new positioning methods showed a marked improvement in our Panorex image quality. Midline blur, teeth artifact obstruction, and TMJ cutoff are now easily fixed with these methods.

Conclusions and Implications

New positioning training on the Panorex dramatically improved imaging for our Patients, Technologists, and Radiologists. We no longer have sub quality, non-diagnostic Panorex imaging. Our Technologists no longer avoid Panorex exams, our Radiologists

Comments

Presented at the University of New Mexico Health Science 2020 Annual Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Symposium

Recommended Citation

Mares, Miranda J. and Andrew K. Griner. "Image Quality Improvement for Panorex Imaging in a Hospital Radiology Department." (2020). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/hsc_qips/5