Effect of Thermal Insulation on Image Quality and Radiation Dose in Polytrauma Computed Tomography.

Abstract

Unintentional drop in body temperature in trauma victims is an independent risk factor for mortality. We aimed to assess the impact of thermal insulation on image quality and radiation dose in polytrauma computed tomography (CT). Thirteen different insulating covers were used to wrap CT phantoms. Images were assessed subjectively at a radiological workstation and analyzed digitally with dedicated software evaluating the noise intensity, spatial resolution, and image homogeneity. The radiation dose was measured using a dosimeter. Most materials did not cause significant artifacts apart from 2 heating pads. Although the radiation dose was increased by the majority of insulating covers (up to 64.66%), certain covers decreased the absorbed radiation (up to -7.35%). The majority of insulating systems do not cause artifacts in CT scans. When using covers with self-heating warmers, removing the heating pad is suggested due to the risk of considerable artifacts appearing. Certain insulating covers may increase or decrease the radiation dose.