What is monthly QA testing? do I require a manufactures test object and how does it help my practices compliance?
In the UK, dentists must follow the guidance set forth by the General Dental Council (GDC), which is the regulatory body for dental professionals in the UK. According to the GDC's guidance on cone beam CT scanners, dentists are required to carry out a critical evaluation before using a cone beam CT scanner in their practice.
The purpose of the critical evaluation is to ensure that the scanner is being used appropriately and that the radiation doses being administered to patients are as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA). The critical evaluation should consider the following factors:
1 Justification: The dentist should consider whether the use of a cone beam CT scanner is justified in each individual case, based on the clinical need and the availability of alternative diagnostic methods.
2 Patient selection: The dentist should ensure that the scanner is only used on patients who will benefit from the diagnostic information it provides.
3 Dose optimisation: The dentist should take steps to minimise the radiation dose to the patient, such as using the lowest possible dose settings and avoiding unnecessary repeat scans.
4 Quality assurance: The dentist should have a quality assurance program in place to ensure that the scanner is functioning properly and that the images it produces are of high quality. By following these guidelines, dentists can ensure that their use of a cone beam CT scanner is safe and appropriate for their patients.
360 Visualise provide a manufacturer's test object with every CBCT machine we install. Alongside the manufactures QA software, the practice can carry out a monthly QA test to ensure the CBCT is functioning correctly. Provided the practice carry out this QA test monthly, the CBCT will only require an RPA critical exam every 3 years.