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Survey of practice in paediatric computed tomography
D Kostova-Lefterova1, J Vassileva
1National Centre of Radiobiology and Radiation Protection, Sofia, Bulgaria. dessi.zvkl@gmail.com
Radiation Protection Dosimetry
|August 10, 2011
Summary
Paediatric computed tomography (CT) frequency varied significantly across Bulgarian hospitals. Findings highlight inconsistent practices and high radiation doses in children
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Radiology
- Paediatric Health
Background:
- Computed tomography (CT) is a vital diagnostic tool in paediatric care.
- Standardized protocols and dose monitoring are crucial for minimizing radiation exposure in children.
- International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) guidelines exist for paediatric CT surveys.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the frequency of paediatric CT examinations in Bulgarian hospitals.
- To assess current practices and radiation dose levels in paediatric CT.
- To identify areas for improvement in radiation dose reduction for children undergoing CT scans.
Main Methods:
- Utilized standard IAEA survey forms for data collection.
- Gathered data on paediatric CT examinations from six hospitals in Bulgaria for the year 2009.
- Analyzed variations in radiation dose and adherence to dedicated paediatric CT protocols.
Main Results:
- Significant variations in paediatric CT doses (up to 4x) were observed between centers for similar procedures.
- One hospital reported paediatric doses twice as high as adult doses.
- Only seven departments used dedicated CT protocols for children, and just four kept patient dose records.
Conclusions:
- Current paediatric CT practices in Bulgaria show considerable variability in frequency and radiation dose.
- Lack of dedicated protocols and inadequate dose record-keeping contribute to suboptimal radiation management.
- The study provides preliminary data to guide recommendations for reducing patient doses in paediatric CT.
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