ON the advice of a general practitioner, I recently had a diagnostic X-ray done at a clinic.

Two exposures at different angles of the lumbar-sacral area would have been adequate. The poor clarity of one of the developed films meant another shoot was needed. I was told it was dark.

A check on the Internet revealed one or a combination of factors could contribute to dark films. These include light exposure problems in the laboratory, developing time incorrectly set or processing temperature set too high.

Although there are obvious benefits of medical X-rays, to be further exposed to radiation is uncalled for.

There is no such thing as a “safe dose” because X-rays have very potent mutagenic effect on human bodies, even at low doses.

How then can a patient be prevented from undue exposure and risk when undergoing X-ray imaging? Have the personnel been properly vetted for their experience and qualifications before being given employment?

Are the operating staff being regularly monitored to prevent lapses in performance?

C.H. TAN, Johor Baru

Source: NST – May 26, 2008