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Establishing of a National Diagnostic Reference Level for Radiation Dose in Digital Paediatric Pelvic X-Rays in
Malak AlHawadi1, Mohammad Ayasrah1
1Department of Allied Medical Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan.
Insights
This study established a national benchmark for paediatric pelvic X-ray radiation doses in Jordan. The 75th percentile Entrance Surface Dose (ESD) was found to be 0.612 mGy, aiding in radiation dose optimization for children.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Radiology
- Radiation Protection
Background:
- Paediatric pelvic X-rays are crucial for diagnosing conditions but involve radiation risks.
- Dose Reference Levels (DRLs) are vital for optimizing safety and image quality in paediatric radiography.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a National Dose Reference Level (NDRL) for digital paediatric pelvic X-rays in Jordan.
- To optimize radiation doses, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and minimize risks in paediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter retrospective analysis of 1,674 paediatric Anterior-Posterior (AP) digital pelvic X-rays from 12 Jordanian institutions.
- Collection of parameters like Kilovoltage peak (kVp), milli Ampere second (mAs), and Focal to Skin Distance (FSD).
- Indirect calculation of Entrance Surface Dose (ESD) following international guidelines.
Main Results:
- The mean ESD was 0.69 mGy.
- The overall 75th percentile ESD (DRL) was determined to be 0.612 mGy.
- Age-specific DRLs were established: 0.265 mGy (0-<1 yr), 0.382 mGy (1-<5 yrs), 0.704 mGy (5-<10 yrs), and 0.995 mGy (10-≤15 yrs).
Conclusions:
- Significant age-dependent variations and inter-institutional disparities in radiation doses were observed.
- The established NDRL of 0.612 mGy serves as a benchmark for dose optimization in Jordan.
- Findings support the development of national radiation protection policies and improved paediatric imaging practices.
Background:
Paediatric pelvic X-rays are essential for diagnosing injuries and developmental abnormalities but pose radiation risks to sensitive children. Dose Reference Levels (DRLs) play a critical role in optimising radiographic procedures, ensuring both safety and high-quality imaging.
Objective:
This research aimed to establish a National Dose Reference Level (NDRL) for digital paediatric pelvic X-rays in Jordan to optimise radiation doses, improve diagnostic accuracy, and minimise risks.
Methods:
A Multicenter retrospective analysis was performed on paediatric Anterior-Posterior (AP) digital pelvic X-rays from various 12 Jordanian healthcare institutions. Parameters including Kilovoltage peak (kVp), milli Ampere second (mAs), and Focal to Skin Distance (FSD) were collected. Entrance Surface Dose (ESD) was indirectly calculated following international guidelines.
Results:
The study analysed 1,674 paediatric pelvic X-rays, finding a mean ESD of 0.69 milli-Gray (mGy). The 75th percentile ESD, or (DRL), was 0.612 mGy overall, with age-specific DRLs of 0.265 mGy (0 to <1 year), 0.382 mGy (1 to <5 years), 0.704 mGy (5 to <10 years), and 0.995 mGy (10 to ≤15 years).
Conclusion:
The study revealed age-dependent variations and notable disparities in radiation doses among various healthcare institutions in Jordan. Establishing the NDRL of 0.612 mGy provides a benchmark for dose optimisation and aligns Jordan's practices with international standards. The findings can guide national radiation protection policies and clinical guidelines, enhance paediatric imaging practices, and minimise unnecessary radiation exposure.
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