Automated radiation dose monitoring software packages: impact on computed tomography (CT) dose management and
Mohammed Alanazi1, Peter Kench2, Seyedamir Tavakoli-Taba2
1Medical Image Optimisation and Perceptions Group, Discipline of Medical Imaging Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Australia; Department of Radiology Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Majmaah, Saudi Arabia.
Introduction:
Radiation Dose Monitoring Software (DMS) packages are increasingly used clinically to automatically monitor radiation doses, but their impact on computed tomography (CT) dose optimisation and the implementation challenges have not been systematically assessed.
Aim:
This review aims to assess DMS tools effectiveness in managing and optimising CT radiation doses and identify the main challenges involved in their implementation.
Methods:
Relevant articles published until August 2024 were identified via Medline, Scopus, CINAHL, Embase, and Web of Science databases. Reference lists were reviewed for additional studies. The selection process followed PRISMA guidelines. Articles were included if they assessed CT dose optimisation or management using DMS packages and were published in English.
Results:
The search initially identified 1,293 articles. After screening and eligibility assessment, 49 eligible articles were met the inclusion criteria and included in the final analysis. DMS tools were found to play a crucial role in automating the monitoring and management of CT radiation doses and reducing manual effort and errors. DMS packages enabled CT dose benchmarking against diagnostic reference levels, inter-hospital and scanner comparisons, dose calculations, cumulative dose tracking, and radiation level monitoring over time. The use of DMS packages helped healthcare institutions to optimise radiation doses and improve patient safety. However, available data shows that effective implementation requires skilled users, standardised protocol naming, and regular data verification.
Conclusion:
DMS packages offer long-term solution to CT dose optimisation for patients and healthcare facilities. Implementing these tools will ensure accurate and consistent CT dose monitoring while supporting compliance with best practices.
