Effect of an arm traction device on image quality and radiation exposure during neck computed tomography

Abstract

ObjectiveTo retrospectively determine the effect of an arm traction device on image quality and radiation exposure during a neck computed tomography (CT) scan. Materials and methodsStandard neck CT examinations with an automatic tube current modulation technique were compared for two groups (intervention group: patients with an arm traction device, n=45; control group: no particular positioning optimization, n=45). Image quality was the primary outcome and was assessed using image noise and the streak artifact. The secondary outcome was radiation exposure, which was measured by the volume CT dose index (CTDIvol) and dose-length product. Potential confounders, including the effective diameter of the neck and scan length, were also assessed. ResultsImage noise and the streak artifact at the lower neck and the supraclavicular fossa were significantly improved in the intervention group compared with the control group (p<0.001). There was a significant decrease in the CTDIvol in the intervention group versus the control group (p=0.042). DLP showed a tendency toward a decrease in the intervention group that was non-significant (p=0.106). The effective diameter and scan length showed no statistical difference between the two groups. ConclusionAn arm traction device improves the image quality in the lower neck and the supraclavicular fossa during a neck CT. Application of this device also reduces the tendency for radiation exposure.