Abstract
BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to assess scan parameters and to propose strategies to optimize the examinations of children (from 0 to 15 years old) on adult scanners in developing countries.MethodsA study was done in 2015 and 2018 on 312 pediatric patients to verify improved practices. The study of 2015 ended with proposed strategies. Dose and scan parameters were available for prospective dose analysis. These strategies were implemented in a study of 2018.ResultsAmount the CT examinations study in this paper, the common was head trauma (90 %). For every pediatric CT scan in 2015, a kV of 120 was used in the various hospitals. The mAs ranged from 57.75 to 283.33, slice thicknesses from 1.25 to 2.5 mm and pitch from 0.525 to 1.375 mm. In the study of 2018, implementing the strategy defined in the methodology and proposed in 2015: CTDIVol decreased by 21.27 % for children < 1 year, 31.97 % for children 1–4 years, 17 % for children 5–9 years. DLP also decreased by 25.14 %, 36.29 % and 19.85 % for children < 1 year, 1–4 years and 5–9 years respectively. Children were exposed to ionizing radiation on machines designed for adults, but now the doses received by children are reduced.ConclusionsThe reduction of doses during the pediatric CT examination is possible with the introduction of new optimization protocols or the acquisition of a new machine with a pediatric protocol.
Highlights
The purpose of this study was to assess scan parameters and to propose strategies to optimize the examinations of children on adult scanners in developing countries
– In some developing countries such as this country, pediatric Computed Tomography (CT) scanners are made on adult CT scanners that do not have pediatric protocol available
– Displaying an example of a pediatric protocol in the CT scanner control room allows medical imaging technicians to optimize pediatric exams on adult-designed CT scanners
Summary
The purpose of this study was to assess scan parameters and to propose strategies to optimize the examinations of children (from 0 to 15 years old) on adult scanners in developing countries. CT is a medical imaging modality with superior image quality and diagnostic capability compared to conventional radiology [1, 2]. It is the most used imaging modality in this country for imaging brain trauma. Pediatric radiology requires adequate equipment, specific precautions and specialized knowledge of ionizing radiation. This is not an easy task for developing countries, especially regarding equipment and precautions.
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