P4. Local diagnostic reference levels for paediatric interventional cardiology at Universitas Academic Hospital in Free State

Abstract

Introduction Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) were introduced by ICRP (International Commission on Radiological Protection) as a practical tool for radiation dose optimisation in diagnostic radiology for interventional cardiology procedures (ICPs). Since these procedures can result in high radiation dose exposure to patients, the aim of the study was to establish initial local DRLs for paediatric ICPs and compare them with international published data. Materials and methods The study included 229 pediatric patients divided into 4 age groups and different ICPs. The distribution by age groups: 113 (0–1 years); 67 (>1–5 years); 43 (>5 to Results The median value of the DAP for different age groups: 3.1, 4.0, 11.8, and 43.7 Gy·cm2. The median value for FT: 12, 9.3, 16.2 and 18.5 min. The local DRLs are determined as the 75th percentile of the DAP and for the FT according to ICP respectively: 6.4, 38.0 and 7.8 Gy·cm2 and 18.2, 40.0 and 22.4 min. Conclusion The doses reported in this study were high compared to the international published data. These results will be used to draw up the programme for optimization process and as a starting point for further survey in the institution, with the aim to obtain regional DRLs as recommended by the ICRP.