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Published on: January 30, 2020
[Scientific Research Group Report: Nationwide Survey on Radiation Exposure of Pediatric CT Examination in Japan
Yasutaka Takei1, Osamu Miyazaki2, Kosuke Matsubara3
1Department of Radiological Technology, Faculty of Medical Science and Technology, Kawasaki University of Medical Welfare.
Insights
Pediatric computed tomography (CT) scans show reduced radiation dose (CTDIvol) due to advanced technology. However, dose-length product (DLP) for head and abdominal scans may exceed national guidelines, necessitating protocol review.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Physics
- Pediatric Imaging
Background:
- National Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) require regular updates based on current practices.
- Pediatric computed tomography (CT) protocols are evolving with technological advancements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current pediatric CT radiation exposure levels.
- To inform the revision of national DRLs for pediatric CT examinations.
Main Methods:
- A nationwide survey was conducted using questionnaires.
- Investigated imaging conditions, CTDIvol, and DLP for pediatric head, chest, and abdominal CT.
- Data collected from facilities with members of Japanese radiological societies.
Main Results:
- 11% of facilities responded; all utilized multi-detector row CT (MDCT) systems (mostly >64 detector rows).
- CTDIvol was generally below national DRLs due to MDCTs and iterative reconstruction.
- DLP for pediatric head and abdominal CT exceeded national DRLs in some age groups.
Conclusions:
- Despite technological improvements reducing CTDIvol, DLP variations necessitate attention.
- Review of pediatric CT imaging protocols with physicians and radiologists is crucial.
- Further optimization of medical radiation exposure in pediatric CT is recommended.
Purpose:
To understand the latest pediatric computed tomography (CT) exposure required for the revision of national DRLs.
Methods:
A questionnaire was sent to 409 facilities where the members of the Japanese Society of Radiological Technology and the Japanese Society of Pediatric Radiology are enrolled. We investigated the imaging conditions, CTDIvol, and DLP of the pediatric head, chest, and abdominal CT examinations.
Results:
In all, 43 facilities (11%) responded to our survey. multi detector-row CT (MDCT) systems were available in all surveyed facilities. More than 98% of the MDCT systems had more than 64 detector rows. The CTDIvol of all CT protocols was lower than the NDRL due to the progress of updating to MDCTs with radiation exposure reduction functions such as an iterative reconstruction, but the DLP of head and abdominal CT protocols of some age group were higher than NDRL.
Conclusion:
It is necessary to review the imaging protocol with the attending physician and radiologist and consider further optimization of medical exposure.
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