Abstract
CT scanning technology is a valuable tool to diagnose many diseases; however, the level of the radiation dose is a source of concern, especially for children. CT scan systems and dose measurement methods have evolved over the years; but reported pediatric effective doses (EDs) have sometimes exceeded the annual dose limit recommended by the ICRP (1 mSv per year for persons under 18 years) (ICRP, 2007a). Efforts have been made to reduce organ doses and EDs by adjusting the scan parameters. This paper describes the determinants of the ED, and the dose reduction techniques in pediatric imaging from the early age of CT examinations until now. The first epidemiological results regarding the associated risk of cancer are also briefly presented.
Highlights
Since its introduction in 1973, CT has established itself as a valuable diagnostic imaging modality
More than 1000 CT scanners were in use in 50 countries in 1979 (Friedland and Thurber, 1996), a 10% annual growth in the global CT market was reported in the year 2002 (ICRP, 2007a), and currently 6,000 scanners are in use in the United States (Medicine Health, 2012)
According to the importance of pediatric CT dosimetry, the aim of this paper is to review the main parameters influencing doses received by children, the associated risk and some dose reduction methods
Summary
Since its introduction in 1973, CT has established itself as a valuable diagnostic imaging modality. Since there is great variability in body size in the pediatric population, adjusting CT scan parameters such as tube current and voltage is necessary. If CT parameters used for children are not adjusted based on examination type, or age or size of the child, some patients will be exposed to an unnecessarily high radiation dose during CT imaging (Donnelly et al, 2001; Khursheed et al, 2002; Pages et al, 2003). According to the importance of pediatric CT dosimetry, the aim of this paper is to review the main parameters influencing doses received by children, the associated risk and some dose reduction methods
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
