Low dose CT: practices and strategies of radiologists in university hospitals

We surveyed the practices and policies of the radiology departments of academic institutions in Turkey regarding the use of low dose CT in daily practice.

Surveys were mailed electronically to radiology departments of 40 university hospitals. Information gathered included modifications of standard protocols for dose reduction according to body parts being examined or depending on specific patient groups such as children, pregnant, or slim patients.

Thirty-three radiology departments (82%) responded. Twenty-eight (85%) reported that they modify CT scanning parameters in order to reduce the patient dose. Of these, 5 (18%) reported that they always modulate the scan parameters, 10 (36%) often, 11 (39%) sometimes, and 2 (7%) seldom. Reduced dose CT is applied mostly in pediatric and pregnant patients, reported by 93% and 57% of respondents, respectively. The most common body part for the application of low dose CT was chest examination followed by imaging of paranasal sinuses, abdomen, and CT-guided interventions. The most common modification for dose reduction is using low mA, followed by increasing the pitch value.

Most respondents are aware of low dose CT, but the frequency of application varies considerably in routine practice. Reduced mA and increased pitch are the most commonly used modifications.