Pragmatic Approaches to Reducing Radiation Dose in Brain Computed Tomography Scan using Scan Parameter Modification.

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Radiation Dosimetry

Background:

• Patient radiation dose in computed tomography (CT) is a significant concern.
• Optimizing CT scan parameters is crucial for reducing radiation exposure.
• Maintaining diagnostic image quality alongside dose reduction is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To guide radiology technicians in optimizing CT scan parameters.
• To reduce patient radiation dose without compromising diagnostic image quality.
• To investigate the impact of slice thickness and reconstruction filters on CT imaging.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a body mass measurement device phantom for repeated scans.
• Employed software-based and observer-based evaluations for image quality analysis.
• Applied structural equation modeling to assess scan parameter effects on image quality and radiation dose.

Main Results:

• Increasing slice thickness and altering reconstruction filters did not significantly impact low-contrast resolution.
• Spatial resolution remained comparable to standard conditions across different radiation levels (P > 0.05).
• Significant reductions in radiation dose (30%-50%) were observed in brain CT imaging.

Conclusions:

• Adjusting CT scan protocols, including slice thickness and reconstruction filters, can reduce radiation dose by 30%-50%.
• These modifications can be made while preserving acceptable image quality for diagnosis.
• CT protocols should be tailored to clinical needs and patient-specific conditions.