Computed Tomography Diagnostic Reference Levels Worldwide and in Jordan: Implications for Patient Dose Reduction

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiology
• Radiation Protection

Background:

• Computed tomography (CT) significantly contributes to medical radiation exposure.
• Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) are vital for optimizing radiation doses and ensuring patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review international CT DRL practices.
• To examine the current status of DRL development in Jordan.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of published studies and guidance documents on adult and pediatric CT DRLs.
• Analysis of dose metrics including CTDIvol, dose-length product (DLP), and size-specific dose estimate (SSDE).
• Identification of common implementation approaches, dose metrics, and evidence gaps relevant to Jordan.

Main Results:

• Significant inter-country variations exist in DRL methodology, updating cycles, and regulatory integration.
• Jordan has local data but lacks a unified national DRL framework for routine CT practice.
• Reported Jordanian CT dose values exhibit inter-institutional variability.

Conclusions:

• Establishing a national DRL framework in Jordan is essential for standardized data collection, auditing, and oversight.
• Transparent methodology and periodic revision of national DRLs will improve radiation protection and CT protocol consistency.
• Implementing national DRLs will support safer CT practices in Jordan.