The application of direct digital radiography for pneumoconiosis examination and diagnosis

CAI Zhi-chun; WANG Si-hong; LI Xia; LI Shu-min; ZHAO Na; QIN Zhan-xia; SHI Chun-xia

Abstract：Objective To discuss the application of direct digital radiography (DR) in the diagnosis of pneumoconiosis . Methods We chose 811 objects that have been diagnosed and treated in our hospital .These objects were selected from veterans who participated in the national defense construction from 1960's to 1980's and workers who were picked through occupational health examination .HkV and DR chest radiograph were taken during their treatment ,and CT scans were al-so applied to some of the objects .Then we compared the quality and consistency of the two radiographs in the diagnosis of pneumoconiosis .Results By comparing the quality ,we find that the overall quality of DR chest radiograph is better than HkV chest radiograph .Particularly ,the rate of radiographs in level 1 is higher than HkV ,the rate of radiographa in level 3 is lower than HkV .Besides ,the difference between the two radiographs is statistically significant ( P < 0 .05) .DR chest radiograph is better in terms of image resolution and micro-structure of lungs .The diagnostic results of these two groups are almost identical .There is no significant difference regarding small shadow form ,overall intensity ,and distribu-tion range .Conclusion DR chest radiograph has better quality and level 3 rated radiographs is lower than HkV ;DR pho-tography can be used for the examination and diagnosis of pneumoconiosis .