Sustainable Practices in Diagnostic Imaging: A Systematic Review of Environmental Initiatives and Resource Management in Saudi Radiology Departments

Abstract

Diagnostic imaging services represent significant contributors to healthcare's environmental footprint through energy consumption, waste generation, and resource utilization. This systematic review examines sustainable practices implemented in Saudi Arabian radiology departments with a focus on environmental initiatives and resource management strategies. Following PRISMA guidelines, comprehensive database searches identified 37 eligible studies published between 2010-2023 that documented sustainable interventions in Saudi radiological settings. The review identified four primary domains of sustainable practice: energy efficiency interventions, waste reduction strategies, water conservation approaches, and resource optimization initiatives. Implementation of Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) demonstrated significant impacts on environmental sustainability with documented reductions in chemical waste (82-97%), physical storage requirements (94%), and energy utilization (43-71%) across multiple facilities. Energy efficiency interventions, including equipment power management protocols and facility design modifications, achieved energy consumption reductions of 17-35% in participating departments. Waste management strategies incorporating tailored segregation protocols and staff education programs demonstrated reductions in hazardous waste generation of 23-41%. Implementation challenges consistently identified included initial capital requirements, staff resistance to workflow changes, technical integration difficulties, and administrative barriers. The review highlights significant gaps in current research, particularly regarding standardized assessment methodologies, cost-effectiveness evaluations, and studies addressing smaller facilities outside major urban centers. These findings provide a comprehensive evidence base to inform policy development, resource allocation, and future research to advance sustainable radiological practices within Saudi healthcare systems.