Diagnostic reference levels for paediatric CT in Jordan

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Radiation Protection

Background:

• Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) are essential for optimizing radiation doses in medical imaging.
• Paediatric CT scans require specific attention due to the radiosensitivity of children.
• Limited data exists on current DRLs for paediatric CT in Jordan.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the current status of DRLs for paediatric CT examinations in Jordan.
• To compare radiation dose metrics (CTDIvol and DLP) across different Jordanian hospitals and age groups.
• To benchmark Jordanian DRLs against international standards.

Main Methods:

• Data collection of volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) and Dose Length Product (DLP) from 4 Jordanian hospitals/imaging centres.
• Analysis of dose data for paediatric brain, chest, abdominopelvic, and CAP CT scans.
• Comparison of measured doses with international DRLs and across different age groups (<1, 1-4, 5-10, 11-18 years).

Main Results:

• Significant variations in CTDIvol and DLP were observed between different CT scanners within Jordan, with dose differences up to four-fold.
• DLP values in Jordan were found to be relatively high compared to international DRLs.
• CTDIvol values in Jordan were comparable to international levels, suggesting protocol-driven variations.

Conclusions:

• There is a need to optimize paediatric CT radiation doses in Jordan due to observed variations.
• Differences in protocols and equipment are likely contributors to the dose disparities.
• Establishing and adhering to national DRLs is recommended to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure in paediatric patients.