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Park MS, Ha HI, Ahn JH, Lee IJ, Lim HK. Reducing contrast-agent volume and radiation dose in CT with 90-kVp tube voltage, high tube current modulation, and advanced iteration algorithm. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287214. [PMID: 37319309 PMCID: PMC10270572 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing utilization of computed tomography (CT) has raised concerns regarding CT radiation dose and technology has been developed to achieve an appropriate balance between image quality, radiation dose, and the amount of contrast material. This study was planned to evaluate the image quality and radiation dose in pancreatic dynamic computed tomography (PDCT) with 90-kVp tube voltage and reduction of the standard amount of contrast agent, compared with 100-kVp PDCT of the research hospital's convention. Total of 51 patients with both CT protocols were included. The average Hounsfield units (HU) values of the abdominal organs and image noise were measured for objective image quality analysis. Two radiologists evaluated five categories of image qualities such as subjective image noise, visibility of small structure, beam hardening or streak artifact, lesion conspicuity and overall diagnostic performance for subjective image quality analysis. The total amount of contrast agent, radiation dose, and image noise decreased in the low-kVp group, by 24.4%, 31.7%, and 20.6%, respectively (p < 0.001). The intraobserver and interobserver agreements were moderate to substantial (k = 0.4-0.8). The contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and figure of merit of the almost organs except psoas muscle in the low-kVp group were significantly higher (p < 0.001). Except for lesion conspicuity, both reviewers judged that subjective image quality of the 90-kVp group was better (p < 0.001). With 90-kVp tube voltage, 25% reduced contrast agent volume with advanced iteration algorithm and high tube current modulation achieved radiation dose reduction of 31.7%, as well as better image quality and diagnostic confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Su Park
- Department of Radiology, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Il Ha
- Department of Radiology, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Jhii-Hyun Ahn
- Department of Radiology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Wonju, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
| | - In Jae Lee
- Department of Radiology, Hallym University Sacred Heart Hospital, Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Kyung Lim
- Department of Radiology, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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A new approach to dose reference levels in pediatric CT: Age and size-specific dose estimation. Radiat Phys Chem Oxf Engl 1993 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2022.110698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Sookpeng S, Martin CJ. A PHANTOM EVALUATION OF THE USE OF CT AUTOMATIC TUBE CURRENT MODULATION WITH LOW TUBE POTENTIALS FOR IODINATED CONTRAST STUDIES. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2022; 198:188-195. [PMID: 35224645 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncac023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This paper aimed to investigate effects of different tube voltage and image quality settings on radiation dose and image quality for patients undergoing computed tomography iodinated contrast studies using automatic tube current modulation system and to recommend settings to achieve improved radiation dose and image quality values. A Pagoda phantom with an additional rod of iodine contrast was scanned using different tube voltages and noise index (NI) settings. Size-specific dose estimate (SSDE) and image quality (noise, contrast, contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and figure of merit (FOM)) were analysed. Values of SSDE were maintained with similar NI settings. Contrast and CNR were higher for lower tube voltage settings. Better FOM values can be achieved with higher NI settings with the lower kVs. To achieve better CNR and SSDE compared with the standard setting of 120 kV, a 80 kV with an NI setting of 15 was recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supawitoo Sookpeng
- Department of Radiological Technology, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Naresuan University, Phitsanulok 65000, Thailand
| | - Colin J Martin
- Department of Clinical Physics and Bioengineering, University of Glasgow, Gartnavel Royal Hospital, Glasgow G12 0XH, UK
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Correspondence: Submillisievert CT angiography for carotid arteries using wide array CT scanner and latest iterative reconstruction algorithm in comparison with previous generations technologies: Feasibility and diagnostic accuracy. J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2019; 13:299-300. [PMID: 30962032 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2019.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Nagayama Y, Oda S, Nakaura T, Tsuji A, Urata J, Furusawa M, Utsunomiya D, Funama Y, Kidoh M, Yamashita Y. Radiation Dose Reduction at Pediatric CT: Use of Low Tube Voltage and Iterative Reconstruction. Radiographics 2018; 38:1421-1440. [DOI: 10.1148/rg.2018180041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yasunori Nagayama
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences (Y.N., S.O., T.N., D.U., M.K., Y.Y.), and Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Life Sciences (Y.F.), Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; and Department of Radiology, Kumamoto City Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan (Y.N., A.T., J.U., M.F.)
| | - Seitaro Oda
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences (Y.N., S.O., T.N., D.U., M.K., Y.Y.), and Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Life Sciences (Y.F.), Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; and Department of Radiology, Kumamoto City Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan (Y.N., A.T., J.U., M.F.)
| | - Takeshi Nakaura
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences (Y.N., S.O., T.N., D.U., M.K., Y.Y.), and Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Life Sciences (Y.F.), Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; and Department of Radiology, Kumamoto City Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan (Y.N., A.T., J.U., M.F.)
| | - Akinori Tsuji
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences (Y.N., S.O., T.N., D.U., M.K., Y.Y.), and Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Life Sciences (Y.F.), Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; and Department of Radiology, Kumamoto City Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan (Y.N., A.T., J.U., M.F.)
| | - Joji Urata
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences (Y.N., S.O., T.N., D.U., M.K., Y.Y.), and Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Life Sciences (Y.F.), Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; and Department of Radiology, Kumamoto City Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan (Y.N., A.T., J.U., M.F.)
| | - Mitsuhiro Furusawa
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences (Y.N., S.O., T.N., D.U., M.K., Y.Y.), and Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Life Sciences (Y.F.), Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; and Department of Radiology, Kumamoto City Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan (Y.N., A.T., J.U., M.F.)
| | - Daisuke Utsunomiya
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences (Y.N., S.O., T.N., D.U., M.K., Y.Y.), and Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Life Sciences (Y.F.), Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; and Department of Radiology, Kumamoto City Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan (Y.N., A.T., J.U., M.F.)
| | - Yoshinori Funama
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences (Y.N., S.O., T.N., D.U., M.K., Y.Y.), and Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Life Sciences (Y.F.), Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; and Department of Radiology, Kumamoto City Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan (Y.N., A.T., J.U., M.F.)
| | - Masafumi Kidoh
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences (Y.N., S.O., T.N., D.U., M.K., Y.Y.), and Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Life Sciences (Y.F.), Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; and Department of Radiology, Kumamoto City Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan (Y.N., A.T., J.U., M.F.)
| | - Yasuyuki Yamashita
- From the Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences (Y.N., S.O., T.N., D.U., M.K., Y.Y.), and Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Life Sciences (Y.F.), Kumamoto University, 1-1-1 Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8556, Japan; and Department of Radiology, Kumamoto City Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan (Y.N., A.T., J.U., M.F.)
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Goo HW. Is It Better to Enter a Volume CT Dose Index Value before or after Scan Range Adjustment for Radiation Dose Optimization of Pediatric Cardiothoracic CT with Tube Current Modulation? Korean J Radiol 2018; 19:692-703. [PMID: 29962875 PMCID: PMC6005958 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2018.19.4.692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To determine whether the body size-adapted volume computed tomography (CT) dose index (CTDvol) in pediatric cardiothoracic CT with tube current modulation is better to be entered before or after scan range adjustment for radiation dose optimization. Materials and Methods In 83 patients, cardiothoracic CT with tube current modulation was performed with the body size-adapted CTDIvol entered after (group 1, n = 42) or before (group 2, n = 41) scan range adjustment. Patient-related, radiation dose, and image quality parameters were compared and correlated between the two groups. Results The CTDIvol after the CT scan in group 1 was significantly higher than that in group 2 (1.7 ± 0.1 mGy vs. 1.4 ± 0.3 mGy; p < 0.0001). Image noise (4.6 ± 0.5 Hounsfield units [HU] vs. 4.5 ± 0.7 HU) and image quality (1.5 ± 0.6 vs. 1.5 ± 0.6) showed no significant differences between the two (p > 0.05). In both groups, all patient-related parameters, except body density, showed positive correlations (r = 0.49–0.94; p < 0.01) with the CTDIvol before and after the CT scan. The CTDIvol after CT scan showed modest positive correlation (r = 0.49; p ≤ 0.001) with image noise in group 1 but no significant correlation (p > 0.05) in group 2. Conclusion In pediatric cardiothoracic CT with tube current modulation, the CTDIvol entered before scan range adjustment provides a significant dose reduction (18%) with comparable image quality compared with that entered after scan range adjustment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Woo Goo
- Department of Radiology and Research Institute of Radiology, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul 05505, Korea
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Hu X, Ma L, Zhang J, Li Z, Shen Y, Hu D. Use of pulmonary CT angiography with low tube voltage and low-iodine-concentration contrast agent to diagnose pulmonary embolism. Sci Rep 2017; 7:12741. [PMID: 29038563 PMCID: PMC5643383 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-13077-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 09/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary CT angiography (CTPA) is regarded as the preferred imaging method in diagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE). Considering the harm of radiation exposure and the side effect of iodinated contrast agent, CTPA protocol with low tube voltage and low dose of contrast agent became research hotspot in last decade. The present study evaluates the image quality, radiation dose, positive rate of PE and the location of PE with a CTPA protocol using low tube voltage (80 kVp) and low-iodine-concentration contrast agent (270 mg I/ml) in patients suspected of PE compared to a conventional CTPA protocol (120 kVp, 350 mg I/ml). The results showed that 80 kVp CTPA protocol with 40 ml 270 mg I/ml achieved equally subjective image quality and a positive rate for diagnosing PE, though the quantitative image quality was reduced compared to the 120 kVp CTPA protocol with 40 ml 350 mg I/ml administered, with a 63.6% decrease in radiation dose and a 22.9% reduction in iodine content of contrast agent. Our results document that CTPA protocol with low tube voltage and low iodine concentration of contrast agent is satisfied to the clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Hu
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Liya Ma
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinhua Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yaqi Shen
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Daoyu Hu
- Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital Affiliated to Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Masuda T, Funama Y, Kiguchi M, Imada N, Oku T, Sato T, Awai K. Radiation dose reduction based on CNR index with low-tube voltage scan for pediatric CT scan: experimental study using anthropomorphic phantoms. SPRINGERPLUS 2016; 5:2064. [PMID: 27995041 PMCID: PMC5133217 DOI: 10.1186/s40064-016-3715-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background To figure out the relationship between image noise and contrast noise ratio (CNR) at different tube voltages, using anthropomorphic new-born and 1-year-old phantoms, and to discuss the feasibility of radiation dose reduction, based on the obtained CNR index from image noise. We performed helical scans of the anthropomorphic new-born and 1-year-old phantoms. The CT numbers of the simulated aorta and image noise of the simulated mediastinum were measured; then CNR was calculated on 80, 100, and 120-kVp images reconstructed with filtered back projection (FBP) and iterative reconstruction (IR). We also measured the center and surface dose in the case of CNR of 14 using radio-photoluminescence glass dosimeters. Results The CT number of the simulated aorta was increased with decreasing tube voltage from 120 to 80 kVp (362.5–535.1 HU for the new-born, 358.9–532.6 HU for the 1-year-old). At CNR of 14, the center dose was 0.4, 0.6 and 0.9 mGy at FBP and 0.5, 0.6 and 0.9 mGy at IR and with the new-born phantom acquired at 80, 100 and 120 kVp, respectively. The center dose for FBP image was reduced by 56% at 80 kVp, 34% at 100 kVp for the new-born and 36% at 80 kVp, 22% at 100 kVp for the 1-year-old compared with that at 120 kVp. We obtained a relationship between image noise and CNR at different tube voltages using the anthropomorphic new-born and 1-year-old phantoms. Conclusion The use of index of CNR with low-tube voltage may achieve further radiation dose reduction in pediatric CT examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takanori Masuda
- Department of Radiological Technology, Tsuchiya General Hospital, Nakajima-cho 3-30, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, 730-8655 Japan ; Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Funama
- Department of Medical Physics, Faculty of Life Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Masao Kiguchi
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Naoyuki Imada
- Department of Radiological Technology, Tsuchiya General Hospital, Nakajima-cho 3-30, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, 730-8655 Japan
| | - Takayuki Oku
- Department of Radiological Technology, Tsuchiya General Hospital, Nakajima-cho 3-30, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, 730-8655 Japan
| | - Tomoyasu Sato
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Tsuchiya General Hospital, Nakajima-cho 3-30, Naka-ku, Hiroshima, 730-8655 Japan
| | - Kazuo Awai
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
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Effect of various environments and computed tomography scanning parameters on renal volume measurements in vitro: A phantom study. Exp Ther Med 2016; 12:753-758. [PMID: 27446271 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2016.3414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 04/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Kidney volume is an important parameter in clinical practice, and accurate assessment of kidney volume is vital. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of various environments, tube voltages, tube currents and slice thicknesses on the accuracy of a novel segmentation software in determining renal volume on computed tomography (CT) images. The volumes of potatoes and porcine kidneys were measured on CT images and compared with the actual volumes, which were determined by a water displacement method. CT scans were performed under various situations, including different environments (air or oil); tube voltages/tube currents (80 kVp/200 mAs, 120 kVp/200 mAs, 120 kVp/100 mAs); and reconstructed slice thicknesses (0.75 or 1.5 mm). Percentage errors (PEs) relative to the reference standards were calculated. In addition, attenuation and image noise under different CT scanning parameters were compared. Student's t-test was also used to analyze the effect of various conditions on image quality and volume measurements. The results indicated that the volumes measured in oil were closer to the actual volumes (P<0.05). Furthermore, attenuation and image noise significantly increased when using a tube voltage of 80 kVp, while the mean PEs between 120 and 80 kVp voltages were not significantly different. The mean PEs were greater when using a tube current of 100 mAs compared with a current of 200 mAs (P<0.05). In addition, the volumes measured on 1.5 mm slice thickness were closer to the actual volumes (P<0.05). In conclusion, different environments, tube currents and slice thicknesses may affect the volume measurements. In the present study, the most accurate volume measurements were obtained at 120 kVp/200 mAs and a slice thickness of 1.5 mm.
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Lamba R, Corwin MT, Fananapazir G. Practical dose reduction tips for abdominal interventional procedures using CT-guidance. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2016; 41:743-53. [PMID: 26920005 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-016-0670-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Reducing the radiation dose should be an endeavor not only for diagnostic CT exams but also for interventional procedures using CT-guidance. Given that interventional procedures vary in scope and complexity, there is greater variability in radiation doses delivered during CT procedures. The goal in an interventional procedure is simply to advance the interventional instruments into the target lesions, and as such diagnostic level doses are not required and only narrow scan range scans need to be acquired. Adherence to the principles outlined in this article will allow such procedures to be performed with reduced radiation doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramit Lamba
- Department of Radiology, University of California Davis Medical Center, 4860 Y Street, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA.
| | - Michael T Corwin
- Department of Radiology, University of California Davis Medical Center, 4860 Y Street, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
| | - Ghaneh Fananapazir
- Department of Radiology, University of California Davis Medical Center, 4860 Y Street, Sacramento, CA, 95817, USA
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Al Mahrooqi KMS, Ng CKC, Sun Z. Pediatric Computed Tomography Dose Optimization Strategies: A Literature Review. J Med Imaging Radiat Sci 2015; 46:241-249. [PMID: 31052099 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmir.2015.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Revised: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Computed tomography (CT) dose optimization is an important issue in radiography because CT is the largest contributor to medical radiation dose and its use is increasing. However, CT dose optimization for pediatric patients could be more challenging than their adult counterparts. The purpose of this literature review was to identify and discuss the current pediatric CT dose saving techniques. Optimized pediatric protocols were also proposed. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the Medline, ProQuest Health and Medical Complete, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Springer Link, and Web of Science databases and the keywords CT, pediatric, optimization, protocol, and radiation dose to identify articles focusing on pediatric CT dose optimization strategies published between 2004 and 2014. RESULTS AND SUMMARY Seventy-seven articles were identified in the literature search. Strategies for optimizing a range of scan parameters and technical considerations including tube voltage and current, iterative reconstruction, diagnostic reference levels, bowtie filters, scout view, pitch, scan collimation and time, overscanning, and overbeaming for pediatric patients with different ages and body sizes and compositions were discussed. An example of optimized pediatric protocols specific to age and body size for the 64-slice CT scanners was devised. It is expected that this example could provide medical radiation technologists, radiologists, and medical physicists with ideas to optimize their pediatric protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Curtise Kin Cheung Ng
- Department of Medical Radiation Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Zhonghua Sun
- Department of Medical Radiation Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Pediatric CT dose reduction for suspected appendicitis: a practice quality improvement project using artificial Gaussian noise--part 1, computer simulations. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2015; 204:W86-94. [PMID: 25539280 DOI: 10.2214/ajr.14.12964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to develop a departmental practice quality improvement project to systematically reduce CT doses for the evaluation of suspected pediatric appendicitis by introducing computer-generated gaussian noise. MATERIALS AND METHODS Two hundred MDCT abdominopelvic examinations of patients younger than 20 years performed with girth-based scanning parameters for suspected appendicitis were reviewed. Two judges selected 45 examinations in which the diagnosis of appendicitis was excluded (14, appendix not visualized; 31, normal appendix visualized). Gaussian noise was introduced into axial image series, creating five additional series acquired at 25-76% of the original dose. Two readers reviewed 270 image series for appendix visualization (4-point Likert scale and arrow localization). Volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) and size-specific dose estimate (SSDE) were calculated by use of patient girth. Confidence ratings and localization accuracy were analyzed with mixed models and nonparametric bootstrap analysis at a 0.05 significance level. RESULTS The mean baseline SSDE for the 45 patients was 16 mGy (95% CI, 12-20 mGy), and the corresponding CTDIvol was 10 mGy (95% CI, 4-16 mGy). Changes in correct appendix localization frequencies were minor. There was no substantial trend with decreasing simulated dose level (p = 0.46). Confidence ratings decreased with increasing dose reduction (p = 0.007). The average decreases were -0.27 for the 25% simulated dose (p = 0.01), -0.17 for 33% (p = 0.03), and -0.03 for 43% (p = 0.65). CONCLUSION Pediatric abdominal MDCT can be performed with 43% of the original dose (SSDE, 7 mGy; CTDIvol, 4.3 mGy) without substantially affecting visualization of a normal appendix.
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Cody DD. Development of pediatric CT protocols for specific scanners: why bother? Pediatr Radiol 2014; 44 Suppl 3:489-91. [PMID: 25304708 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-014-3136-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2014] [Revised: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 07/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
When determining a strategy for pediatric CT scanning, clinical staff can either elect to adjust routine adult-protocol parameter settings on a case-by-case basis or rely on pre-set pediatric protocol parameters. The advantages of the latter approach are the topic of this manuscript. This paper outlines specific options to consider, including the need for regular protocol review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dianna D Cody
- Department of Imaging Physics, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1400 Pressler Ave., Unit 1472, Houston, TX, 77030, USA,
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Introduction of an Effective Method for the Optimization of CT Protocols Using Iterative Reconstruction Algorithms: Comparison With Patient Data. AJR Am J Roentgenol 2014; 203:W434-9. [DOI: 10.2214/ajr.13.11973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Durand S, Paul JF. Comparison of image quality between 70 kVp and 80 kVp: application to paediatric cardiac CT. Eur Radiol 2014; 24:3003-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s00330-014-3341-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Revised: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Kritsaneepaiboon S, Siriwanarangsun P, Tanaanantarak P, Krisanachinda A. Can a revised paediatric radiation dose reduction CT protocol be applied and still maintain anatomical delineation, diagnostic confidence and overall imaging quality? Br J Radiol 2014; 87:20140032. [PMID: 24959737 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20140032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare multidetector CT (MDCT) radiation doses between default settings and a revised dose reduction protocol and to determine whether the diagnostic confidence can be maintained with imaging quality made under the revised protocol in paediatric head, chest and abdominal CT studies. METHODS The study retrospectively reviewed head, chest, abdominal and thoracoabdominal MDCT studies, comparing 231 CT studies taken before (Phase 1) and 195 CT studies taken after (Phase 2) the implemented revised protocol. Image quality was assessed using a five-point grading scale based on anatomical criteria, diagnostic confidence and overall quality. Image noise and dose-length product (DLP) were collected and compared. RESULTS The relative dose reductions between Phase 1 and Phase 2 were statistically significant in 35%, 51% and 54% (p < 0.001) of head, chest and abdominal CT studies, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in overall image quality score comparisons in the head (p = 0.3), chest (p = 0.7), abdominal (p = 0.7) and contiguous thoracic (p = 0.1) and abdominal (p = 0.2) CT studies, with the exception of anatomical quality in definition of bronchial walls and delineation of intrahepatic portal branches in thoracoabdominal CTs, and diagnostic confidence in mass lesion in head CTs, liver lesion (>1 cm), splanchnic venous thrombosis, pancreatitis in abdominal CTs, and emphysema and aortic dissection in thoracoabdominal CTs. CONCLUSION Paediatric CT radiation doses can be significantly reduced from manufacturer's default protocol while still maintaining anatomical delineation, diagnostic confidence and overall imaging quality. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE Revised paediatric CT protocol can provide a half DLP reduction while preserving overall imaging quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kritsaneepaiboon
- 1 Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Thailand
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Raman SP, Mahesh M, Blasko RV, Fishman EK. CT scan parameters and radiation dose: practical advice for radiologists. J Am Coll Radiol 2014; 10:840-6. [PMID: 24183553 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2013.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 05/29/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Although there has been increasing recognition of the importance of reducing radiation dose when performing multidetector CT examinations, the increasing complexity of CT scanner technology, as well as confusion about the importance of many different CT scan parameters, has served as an impediment to radiologists seeking to create lower dose protocols. The authors seek to guide radiologists through the manipulation of 8 fundamental CT scan parameters that can be altered or optimized to reduce patient radiation dose, including detector configuration, tube current, tube potential, reconstruction algorithm, patient positioning, scan range, reconstructed slice thickness, and pitch. Although there is always an inherent trade-off between image quality or noise and patient radiation dose, in many cases, a reasoned manipulation of these 8 parameters can allow the safer imaging of patients (with lower dose) while preserving diagnostic image quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siva P Raman
- Department of Radiology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.
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Lamba R. Radiation dose optimization for CT-guided interventional procedures in the abdomen and pelvis. J Am Coll Radiol 2014; 11:279-84. [PMID: 24424426 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacr.2013.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Radiation dose to patients can be high for some CT-guided interventional procedures in the abdomen and pelvis, especially tumor ablations. Strategies for radiation dose reduction include choosing an alternative guidance modality that does not use radiation whenever feasible, restricting the cranio-caudal length of interventional scans to the interventional target, and refinement of technical skills in order to minimize the number of scans acquired for interventional guidance. Dose optimization for these procedures is best achieved by lowering the tube current relative to the prior diagnostic scan, choosing dose efficient scanning modes, and using intermittent-mode, narrowly collimated CT fluoroscopy for interventional guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramit Lamba
- Department of Radiology, University of California, Davis, Sacramento, California.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of lowering tube voltage on dose and noise in cylindric water phantoms to optimize quality and decrease the radiation dose for body CT. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed CT on cylindric water phantoms with diameters of 10, 20, 25, and 30 cm, simulating the abdomen of an infant, child, adolescent, and adult. We used tube voltages of 120, 100, and 80 kVp. The CT dose index (32-cm reference) ranged from 1 to 10 mGy in 10- and 20-cm phantoms and from 2 to 20 mGy in the 25- and 30-cm phantoms. The noise was measured at the center and periphery of the scans. Central and peripheral doses were measured in 16- and 32-cm CT dose index phantoms, and the ratio of central to peripheral doses was calculated. RESULTS At the same noise levels, there was no significant increase in dose in 10-cm cylindric water phantoms when tube voltage was decreased to either 80 or 100 kVp. In 20-, 25-, and 30-cm phantoms, there was a 1-6% increase in dose when tube voltage was decreased to 100 kVp. Central-to-peripheral noise ratios increased 7-37% with increased phantom size. The measured peripheral dose increased as much as 5%. CONCLUSION Our findings support the practice of lowering tube voltage to 80 kVp for imaging of infants and to 100 kVp for imaging of older children. The increase in peripheral dose with decreased tube voltage is minimal and is unlikely to cause substantial change in the effective dose.
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