RADIOGRAPHY OF THE HIP JOINTS IN INFANTS: RADIATION EXPOSURE, IMPACT ON THE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM, AND PROTECTIVE MEASURES

Özet

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) occurs in 2–4% of newborns and requires early diagnosis to prevent complications. Radiography remains the primary imaging method for evaluating the hip joint in infants. Even low-dose ionizing radiation raises concerns regarding potential effects on the reproductive organs [1] The aim of this study was to assess the impact of hip radiographic examinations on the reproductive organs of children under one year of age and to analyze the use of protective aprons in city clinics of Shymkent, Kazakhstan.

Data collection and analysis were performed using the Akgun PACS Viewer software, which allowed systematic evaluation of radiographic images and compliance with radiation protection measures. Dosimetric assessment was conducted based on exposure parameters recorded by the system to calculate the absorbed dose to the gonads. Statistical analysis was applied to determine the frequency of protective apron use and to evaluate the potential risk of radiation exposure to reproductive organs [2]

The study analyzed 223 radiographic images of 87 infants from 5 major city clinics. Results showed that approximately 70% of infants underwent up to three hip radiographs in the first year of life, while protective aprons were used in only 60% of cases. Dosimetric analysis indicated that without protection, the testes and ovaries received doses exceeding recommended limits, whereas correct use of lead aprons and shields reduced the absorbed dose by approximately tenfold.

The relevance of this study is supported by the need to enforce the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan Order No. KR DSM-275/2020 (December 15, 2020) on sanitary and epidemiological requirements for radiation safety, which mandates the use of protective aprons for children during hip radiography.

The findings emphasize the necessity of strict adherence to radiation safety protocols and support the regulatory requirement for mandatory use of protective aprons and shields during infant hip radiography [3, 14]