Optimization of Radiation Dose in Abdominal using Computerized Tomography

Abstract

Abdominal diagnose CT abdomen scan have diseases. contributed However greatly the to radiation exposure to the patient is significantly higher compared with other radiological examinations. While the benefits of CT exceed the harmful effects of radiation exposure in patients, increasing radiation doses to the population have raised a compelling case for reduction of radiation exposure from CT. In Sudan, there has been a remarkable increase in the number of CT examinations being performed. Therefore, radiation dose optimization is mandatory because of the risks associated with exposure to radiation The purpose of this study is to optimize the radiation dose, estimate the effective dose and radiation risk during adult computed tomographic CT abdomen. A total of 83 patients referred to Al-Ribat University Hospital (RUH) in the period of study with abdominal disturbances. Data of the technical parameters used in CT procedures was taken during (May - October, 2009). The patients were divided in two groups: control group (53patients) were performed with the own department protocol using multislice CT (MSCT) 16 slice (Siemens Sensation); and dosimetry group (30 patients). Optimization was achieved through; the design of dose efficient equipment, the optimization of scan protocol and improvement of referring criteria. Organ and surface dose to iii specific radiosensitive organs was carried out using software from National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB). The mean age was 45.4±18.1 years while the mean weight was 67±Kg. The DLP was 288.25 mGy.cm and CTDIvol was 9.7 mGy. Patient effective doses were 13.5 mSv before the optimization. Conversely, this was reduced to 4.3 after dose optimization. Estimated radiation risk is 742 per million conversely the risk was reduced to 237 per million. Dose optimized protocol lowered the effective doses to 31.9%. The study has shown a great need referring criteria, continuous training of staff in radiation doses optimization concepts. Further studies are required in order to establish a reference level in Sudan.