Quality control in cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) EFOMP-ESTRO-IAEA protocol (summary report).

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging Physics
• Radiological Technology
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is widely used in dentistry, interventional radiology, surgery, and radiotherapy.
• Varied testing parameters across different CBCT systems hinder consistent performance evaluation and quality assurance.
• A unified approach is needed to standardize image quality assessment and radiation output monitoring.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a consensus guideline for unifying test parameters for image quality and radiation output in all CBCT systems.
• To provide objective methods for evaluating CBCT system performance and constancy.
• To offer practical guidance for clinical implementation and quality control.

Main Methods:

• Collected experience from various professional associations to achieve consensus on testing protocols.
• Recommended specific image quality tests: uniformity, geometrical precision, voxel density, noise, low contrast resolution, and spatial resolution.
• Proposed methods for radiation output measurement using kerma-area product meters or solid-state dosimeters.

Main Results:

• Defined a set of rigorous tests for objective evaluation of CBCT imaging chain performance.
• Provided summary tables with action levels and recommended frequencies for each test.
• Established criteria for identifying systems requiring further analysis and corrective maintenance.

Conclusions:

• The guideline offers a standardized framework for CBCT image quality and radiation output testing.
• Implementation of these unified tests ensures consistent performance, enhances patient safety, and supports reliable clinical applications.
• Regular monitoring and adherence to action levels are crucial for maintaining optimal CBCT system function.