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CT in children--dose protection and general considerations when planning a CT in a child

E Sorantin1, S Weissensteiner, G Hasenburger

  • 1Department of Radiology, Division of Pediatric Radiology, Medical University of Graz, Austria. erich.sorantin@medunigraz.at

European Journal of Radiology
|January 10, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric CT protocols must be adapted for children due to their higher radiation sensitivity and unique physiology. Adjusting dose-relevant factors in CT scans minimizes radiation exposure for pediatric patients.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Medical Imaging
  • Pediatric Imaging

Background:

  • Computed Tomography (CT) accounts for 10% of imaging modalities but over 50% of diagnostic radiation dose.
  • Children exhibit significantly higher radiation sensitivity compared to adults.
  • Pediatric patients have distinct physiological characteristics (size, density, metabolism) requiring tailored imaging protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present and discuss the development of pediatric-specific CT protocols.
  • To address age and query-adapted CT protocols for children.
  • To focus on dose-relevant factors and their adjustment in pediatric CT examinations.

Main Methods:

  • Review of factors influencing total CT dose, including scout view, scan length, and exposure settings.
  • Consideration of scanning modes (single slice, helical, volume) and reconstruction parameters.
  • Evaluation of contrast media injection techniques and timing for dose optimization.

Main Results:

  • CT dose is influenced by numerous technical parameters that require specific pediatric adjustments.
  • Intravenous contrast administration adds another layer of radiation considerations.
  • Tailoring protocols based on age, query, and physiological differences is crucial for pediatric CT.

Conclusions:

  • Defining pediatric-adapted CT protocols is essential for minimizing radiation exposure in children.
  • Optimization of dose-relevant factors and contrast administration is key.
  • Special low-dose imaging protocols should be considered for pediatric patients.

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