Computed tomography radiation doses for common computed tomography examinations: a nationwide dose survey in United Arab Emirates

Mohamed M. Abuzaid,Hatem Ghonim,Dina H. Salama,Wiam Elshami,Huseyin Ozan Tekin,Mona Shawki

doi:10.1186/s13244-020-00891-6

Abstract

ObjectivesComputed tomography (CT) scanning is an essential part of diagnostic and treatment plans, providing swift and accurate diagnostic images. The aim of this study is to develop diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) for the adult common CT examination in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).MethodsThis study presents results of the survey of CT dose indices. The data were collected from 91% of the scanners registered at the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) for five common examinations: head, chest, and abdomen-pelvis with and without CM.ResultsCT dose index, dose-length product, and patient weight were analyzed; the reference dose was calculated on the 75th percentile, and an achievable dose was proposed from the median value. The results were compared with the UAE initial National Dose Report as well as the international reports.The proposed dose for CTDIvol (mGy) and DLP (mGy cm) is as follows: head without CM 40 and 695, head with CM 48 and 820, chest 10 and 275, abdomen-pelvis without CM 14 and 810, and abdomen-pelvis with CM 20 and 1025.ConclusionsThe results show low dose variations between the MOHAP scanners. The data also revealed CTDIvol and DLP values comparable to those in the initial NDRL report and international standards. The establishment of diagnostic reference levels will require a continuous dose monitoring system.

Highlights

In 1996, the International Commission of Radiation Protection (ICRP) first introduced diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) [1]
Optimization of Computed tomography (CT) examination through the comparison of the patient doses with DRLs is recommended by the International Authority (IAEA), IRCP, and European Commission (EC) [2]
ICRP recommended that each country surveys the medical imaging practice to determine national DRLs to be used as indicators, provide guidance for dose optimization, and ensure justification of appropriate dose for a given clinical indication [4, 5]

Summary

Introduction

In 1996, the International Commission of Radiation Protection (ICRP) first introduced diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) [1]. The aim of this measure was to manage the appropriate patient dose for the imaging procedure’s clinical purpose. Optimization of CT examination through the comparison of the patient doses with DRLs is recommended by the International Authority (IAEA), IRCP, and European Commission (EC) [2]. These organizations encourage individual countries to establish their local DRLs and to conduct continuous monitoring for the DRL values. ICRP recommended that each country surveys the medical imaging practice to determine national DRLs to be used as indicators, provide guidance for dose optimization, and ensure justification of appropriate dose for a given clinical indication [4, 5]

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Conclusion