Perceptions and frequency of use of radiography prior to traditional treatment of limb fractures in Kwilu Province

Background: Traditional medicine plays an important role in the treatment of fractures in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), particularly in rural areas where access to biomedical services remains limited. The study aimed to describe the profile of traditional healers, their practices, and their relationship to medical imaging.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among traditional healers in Kinshasa and the surrounding provinces. Data were collected using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews, focusing on educational level, seniority, use of radiography, treatment costs, and willingness to collaborate with modern medicine.Results: The majority of traditional practitioners had attained secondary education (50%) or higher (35.7%), with extensive experience (42.9% had been practicing for 11-20 years, 35.7% for more than 30 years). Practice was regular, with an average of four fractures treated per month. Knowledge was mainly passed down through family tradition (85.7%). Regarding X-rays, 78.6% recognized their importance, but only 14.3% used them systematically. The main constraints were cost (42.9%) and geographical distance (35.7%). The identified benefits included improved diagnostic accuracy and reduced complications. The average cost of treatment ranged from 50,000 to 220,000 CFA francs for the majority, reflecting socioeconomic variability. Finally, 71.4% expressed a willingness to collaborate with physicians.Discussion and conclusion: These results confirm that traditional medicine remains strongly rooted in the community, but that it is limited by restricted access to imaging and economic disparities. The willingness to collaborate opens up promising prospects for gradual integration, in line with WHO recommendations and recent work in Africa.