/library/oar/handle/123456789/325 2026-01-01T01:19:10Z 2026-01-01T01:19:10Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/140999 2025-11-07T14:19:29Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: EFRS/ECSO-MRI project webinar : evolving MR safety across Europe Abstract: This webinar explores the implications of the European Health Data Space (EHDS) Regulation from a Maltese perspective, discussing opportunities for secondary use of health data, compliance challenges for Maltese healthcare providers, and strategies for interoperability in the EU context. It highlights Malta's role in advancing digital health initiatives under the regulation.

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z Bellizzi, Andrea Portelli, Jonathan L. Bezzina, Paul Galea, G. Zarb, Francis /library/oar/handle/123456789/140965 2025-11-07T09:41:46Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Optimisation of non-contrast CT examinations using tin (Sn) filtration : a systematic review Authors: Bellizzi, Andrea; Portelli, Jonathan L.; Bezzina, Paul; Galea, G.; Zarb, Francis Abstract: Introduction: This systematic review explores the impact of Tin (Sn) filtration on radiation dose and image quality improvement in CT. Methods: Using the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) framework, the research question was developed: How does the application of Sn filtration as part of an optimisation strategy affect clinical outcomes related to radiation dose and image quality? MeSH search terms derived from this question were input into five databases: PUBMED, Scopus, CINAHL Complete, Cochrane Central, and ProQuest Health & Medical Collection. Studies were independently screened by three experts using PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria focused on adult clinical studies using Sn filtration in non-contrast CT scans alongside iterative reconstruction (IR). Risk of bias was assessed using the JBI critical appraisal tool. Results: A final 39 studies were included for evaluation. Sn with IR was used to optimise scanning in 10 different types of CT examinations. The use of Sn with IR resulted in a significant dose reduction (20–95 %) across all examinations. Most studies did not compare Sn with IR optimised examinations against standard examinations (without Sn) using a consistent, pre-set noise level, and reported an increase in image noise. Conclusion: Sn is an effective dose reduction strategy for non-contrast CT examinations, but its limitations in terms of objective image quality warrant careful consideration by adjusting the IR level. Further studies are needed to confirm this approach. Implications for practice: The findings support broader consideration of Sn filtration beyond its current use in a single CT vendor. However, wider adoption may face barriers such as vendor-specific hardware limitations, cost, and the need for training and protocol optimisation in clinical practice.

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z Zarb, Francis McNulty, Jonathan P. /library/oar/handle/123456789/140963 2025-11-07T09:33:30Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Assessment of workforce availability, staffing, and education, and training requirements for radiographers across Europe as part of EU-REST project Authors: Zarb, Francis; McNulty, Jonathan P. Abstract: Introduction: The European Union Radiation, Education, Staffing and Training (EU-REST) project assessed workforce availability of professionals involved in medical applications of ionising radiation across European Union (EU) Member States. It developed guidelines for staffing, education and training to ensure radiation safety and quality in medical practices. This paper focuses on the current status of workforce availability, education and training requirements of radiographers across the 27 EU Member States. Methods: A multi-phase survey was employed, consisting of a pre-survey and a main survey. The presurvey gathered information from relevant national authorities and professional bodies, followed by the main survey distributed to these bodies to complete across all Member States. The survey covered workforce availability, staffing levels, workforce planning, education and training, and quality and safety. Data were cleaned and analysed to focus on radiographers' workforce statistics, education and training in countries that completed the relevant section of the survey. Results: The study found significant variation in radiographer workforce availability, with a total of 171,306 working radiographers across Europe. The number of radiographers per million inhabitants ranged from 86 (Belgium) to 613 (Finland). About 7 % of radiographers were expected to retire in the next five years, with some countries facing higher projections. Variations in education systems, workforce distribution, and radiation protection practices were observed. Conclusion: There is a need for harmonisation of how workforce data is collected and reported across Member States. Establishing centralised registries and standardised data collection methods is crucial for improving workforce management and ensuring radiation safety in medical settings. Implications for practice: Unless coordinated actions are taken to address issues related to the radiography workforce, staffing levels, and associated education and training, optimal standards will remain unattainable.

2025-01-01T00:00:00Z Mizzi, Deborah Allely, Clare S. Zarb, Francis Mercer, Claire E. /library/oar/handle/123456789/140960 2025-11-07T09:26:00Z 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Requirements and challenges of supplementary breast cancer screening in women with dense breasts across Europe : a mixed-methods cross-sectional survey Authors: Mizzi, Deborah; Allely, Clare S.; Zarb, Francis; Mercer, Claire E. Abstract: Introduction: Women with dense breast tissue are at increased risk for breast cancer, and standard mammography often fails to detect cancer in this population. Supplementary screening modalities offer improved detection, yet practices across Europe remain inconsistent. This study explores the requirements for implementing supplementary breast cancer screening across Europe by surveying current guidance and practices, examining workforce awareness and perceptions of existing protocols, identifying barriers to practice change, and evaluating staff willingness to adopt these screenings. Methods: A mixed-methods cross-sectional survey was distributed online to radiographers and radiologists in breast cancer screening units across Europe. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including the Friedman and Chi–Square tests, were used to analyse quantitative data. Qualitative data from openended questions were analysed using content analysis. Results: Eighty-three respondents from 39 countries responded over a six-month period. The majority (95.2 %) of respondents worked in breast screening programs. Hand-held ultrasound (45.8 %), Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (32.5 %), and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (22.9 %) were the most used supplementary modalities. Main barriers included waiting lists (mean = 3.99), cost (mean = 3.98), and workload (mean = 3.95). Only 34.9 % of the respondents recorded breast density. Awareness of guidelines varied significantly by profession (p = 0.009). Themes from open-ended responses highlighted technological needs, staffing gaps, training needs, and cost barriers. Conclusion: Despite high awareness, implementation of supplementary screening remains limited due to systemic barriers. Standardized guidelines, resource investment, and targeted education are needed to ensure equitable breast cancer screening across Europe. Implications for practice: Addressing disparities in training, resources, and guideline implementation is essential to support healthcare professionals in delivering effective supplementary screening for women with dense breasts. These findings can inform the development of standardized protocols and targeted professional education across Europe.

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