Improving education on C-arm operation and radiation protection with a computer-based training and simulation system.
OBJECTIVE
To discuss an approach to improve education in C-arm operation and reduction of radiation hazards based on a computer based training and simulation system called virtX.


METHODS
virtX is equipped with a visualization of scattered radiation and means to include patient positioning changes in radiograph simulation. virtX was integrated in a course for ORP and evaluated based on questionnaires.


RESULTS
Response rate was 73 (n = 77), mean age 35.4 (+/-9.2) and professional experience 11.2+/- 10.4 years. 91% use a C-arm regularly, 8% casually and 1% not. 78% agree that the translation of patient dummy positioning changes to simulated X-ray images is sufficiently realistic, 1% disagree (neutral 17%). 79% state that they acquired new knowledge concerning avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure, 10% do not (neutral 11%).


CONCLUSIONS
The virtX-approach of simulating radiograph generation including patient positioning and scattered radiation was evaluated positively concerning its suitability for imparting knowledge regarding radiation protection and C-arm operation.
Bott
Oliver Johannes
OJ
Department of Information and Communication, Faculty III, University of Applied Sciences and Arts, Hannover, Germany. oliver.bott@fh-hannover.de
Wagner
Markus
M
Duwenkamp
Christopher
C
Hellrung
Nils
N
Dresing
Klaus
K
D000328:Adult; D003198:Computer Simulation / Q000639:trends*; D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing / Q000379:methods*; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011187:Posture; D011835:Radiation Protection / Q000295:instrumentation*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods*