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Derivation of Australian diagnostic reference levels for paediatric multi detector computed tomography
Anna Hayton1, Anthony Wallace2
1Medical Imaging Section, Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency, 619 Lower Plenty Road, Yallambie, Melbourne, VIC, 3085, Australia. Anna.Hayton@arpansa.gov.au.
Australasian Physical & Engineering Sciences in Medicine
|June 29, 2016
Summary
Australian authorities established national diagnostic reference levels for paediatric computed tomography (CT) scans. These new paediatric CT dose benchmarks aim to reduce radiation exposure for children undergoing imaging procedures.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Radiological Protection
- Paediatric Health
Background:
- Australian National Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) for paediatric multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) were established in 2012.
- These DRLs are crucial for reducing patient CT doses nationally.
- Initial data collection for adult DRLs relied on a web service, but paediatric data submission was initially lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish Australian National Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) for paediatric multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT).
- To provide benchmarks for radiation dose optimization in paediatric CT examinations.
- To facilitate a national approach to lowering patient CT doses in children.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from an independent Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists Quality Use of Diagnostic Imaging paediatric optimisation survey.
- Defined paediatric DRLs for CTDIvol (mGy) and DLP (mGy·cm) using standard phantoms (16 cm for Head, 32 cm for Body).
- Established DRLs for three protocols (Head, Chest, AbdoPelvis) across two age groups (Baby/Infant 0-4 years, Child 5-14 years).
Main Results:
- Australian paediatric DRLs (DLP, mGy·cm) for MDCT were established: Head (470, 600), Chest (60, 110), AbdoPelvis (170, 390) for Baby/Infant and Child groups, respectively.
- Australian paediatric DRLs were found to be lower on average compared to published international benchmarks.
- Direct comparison with international DRLs was complicated by differing age range definitions.
Conclusions:
- The establishment of Australian paediatric DRLs for MDCT represents a significant advancement in radiation protection for children.
- The Australian paediatric DRLs provide valuable benchmarks for optimising CT radiation doses in paediatric patients.
- The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) intends to review these paediatric DRLs within five years.
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