Patient Radiation Exposure Research Articles

QUANTIFYING RADIATION EXPOSURE IN THE RADIOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF NON-ARTHRITIC HIP PAIN

Radiological investigations are essential in the work-up of patients presenting with non-arthritic hip pain, to allow close review of the complex anatomy around the hip and proximal femur. The aim of this study is to quantify the radiation exposure associated with common radiological investigations performed in assessing young adult patients presenting with non-arthritic hip pain.A retrospective review of our UK tertiary hip preservation centre institutional imaging database was performed. Data was obtained for antero-posterior, cross-table lateral and frog-lateral radiographs, along with data for the low dose CT hip protocol and the Mako CT Hip protocol. The radiation dose of each imaging technique was measured in terms of dose-area product (DAP) with units of mGycm2, and the effective doses (ED, mSv) calculated.The mean effective radiation dose for hip radiographs was in the range 0.03 to 0.83mSv (mean DLP 126.7–156.2 mGycm2). The mean effective dose associated with the low-dose CT hip protocol was 3.04mSv (416.8 mGycm2) and for the Stryker Mako CT Hip protocol was 8.4mSv (1061 mGycm2). The radiation dose associated with use of CT imaging was significantly greater than plain radiographs (p<0.005)Investigation of non-arthritic hip pain can lead to significant ionising radiation exposure for patients. In our institution, the routine protocol is to obtain an anteroposterior radiograph and then a specific hip sequence 3 Tesla MRI including anteversion views. This provides the necessary information in the majority of cases, with CT scanning reserved for more complex cases where we feel there is a specific indication. We would encourage the hip preservation community to carefully consider and review the use of ionising radiation investigations.

Contribution of CT scan to patient's radiation exposure in parathyroid SPECT/CT scintigraphy

IntroductionDual phase technetium-99mTc-methoxy isobutyl isonitrile (MIBI) single-photon emission computed tomography with computed tomography (SPECT/CT) may be the most accurate conventional imaging approach for localization of enlarged parathyroid gland (EPG). The imaging is based on the radiopharmaceutical (RP) retention in EPG compared to washout from normal thyroid and normal parathyroid glands. This study aimed to estimate and optimize the contribution of computed tomography (CT) scan and scan range to effective dose (ED) in dual-phase MIBI SPECT/CT parathyroid scintigraphy. MethodsThe study included seventy-four patients; thirty-seven with reduced and thirty-seven with extended CT scan range. The ED caused by the CT scan was calculated using Dose Length Product (DLP) data and estimated using the Imaging Performance Assessment of CT scanners (ImPACT) calculator. ResultsFor all patients, the contribution of CT to the ED in a combined SPECT/CT examination was 2.62 ± 0.29 mSv (48%). The contribution of CT to the total ED was 1.8 ± 0.18 mSv (33%) when using reduced and 3.44 ± 0.23 mSv (64%) when using extended scan range. The DLP and ED were statistically significantly different between the reduced and extended CT scan range (p < 0.001) in the first and second phases. The individual organ dose was reduced from 8% to 94%. ConclusionThe hybrid SPECT/CT improves the interpretation of nuclear medicine images and also increases the radiation dose to the patient. An adequately defined CT scan range on SPECT/CT imaging, can significantly reduce a patient's ED. Implications for practiceThe research findings showed that knowledge of anatomy, pathology and technology can provide optimising diagnostic procedures and reduce patient ED after SPECT/CT scans.

Radiation exposure of patients during endourological procedures.

Considering the existing gaps in the literature regarding patient radiation dose (RD) and its associated risks, a systematic review of the literature on RD was conducted, focusing on percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (SWL), and ureteroscopy (URS). Two authors conducted a literature search on PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify studies on RD during endourological procedures. Two thousand two hundred sixty-six articles were screened. Sixty-five publications met the inclusion criteria using the PRISMA standards. RD was generally highest for PCNL, reaching levels up to 33mSv, 28,700 mGycm2, and 430.8mGy. This was followed by SWL, with RD reaching up to 7.32mSv, 13,082 mGycm2, and 142mGy. URS demonstrated lower RD, reaching up to 6.07mSv, 8920 mGycm2, and 46.99mGy. Surgeon experience and case load were inversely associated with RD. Strategies such as optimizing fluoroscopy settings, implementing ultrasound (US), and following the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle minimized RD. This is the first systematic review analyzing RD, which was generally highest during PCNL, followed by SWL and URS. There is no specific RD limit for these procedures. Implementation of strategies such as optimizing fluoroscopy settings, utilizing US, and adhering to the ALARA principle proved effective in reducing RD. However, further research is needed to explore the factors influencing RD, assess their impact on patient outcomes, and establish procedure-specific reference levels for RD.

Vertebral and Femoral Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Assessment with Dual-Energy CT versus DXA Scan in Postmenopausal Females.

This study aimed to demonstrate the potential role of dual-energy CT in assessing bone mineral density (BMD) using hydroxyapatite-fat material pairing in postmenopausal women. A retrospective study was conducted on 51 postmenopausal female patients who underwent DXA and DECT examinations for other clinical reasons. DECT images were acquired with spectral imaging using a 256-slice system. These images were processed and visualized using a HAP-fat material pair. Statistical analysis was performed using the Bland-Altman method to assess the agreement between DXA and DECT HAP-fat measurements. Mean BMD, vertebral, and femoral T-scores were obtained. For vertebral analysis, the Bland-Altman plot showed an inverse correlation (R2: -0.042; RMSE: 0.690) between T-scores and DECT HAP-fat values for measurements from L1 to L4, while a good linear correlation (R2: 0.341; RMSE: 0.589) was found for measurements at the femoral neck. In conclusion, we demonstrate the enhanced importance of BMD calculation through DECT, finding a statistically significant correlation only at the femoral neck where BMD results do not seem to be influenced by the overlap of the measurements on cortical and trabecular bone. This outcome could be beneficial in the future by reducing radiation exposure for patients already undergoing follow-up for chronic conditions.

Potential Benefits of Photon-Counting CT in Dental Imaging: A Narrative Review.

Background/Objectives: Advancements in oral imaging technology are continually shaping the landscape of dental diagnosis and treatment planning. Among these, photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT), introduced in 2021, has emerged as a promising, high-quality oral technology. Dental imaging typically requires a resolution beyond the standard CT systems achievable with the specialized cone-beam CT. PCCT can offer up to 100 µm resolution, improve soft-tissue contrast, and provide faster scanning times, which are crucial for detailed dental diagnosis and treatment planning. Using semiconductor detectors, PCCT produces sharper images and can potentially reduce the number of scans required, thereby decreasing patient radiation exposure. This review aimed to explore the potential benefits of PCCT in dental imaging. Methods: This review analyzed the literature on PCCT in dental imaging from January 2010 to February 2024, sourced from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, focusing on high-resolution, patient safety, and diagnostic efficiency in dental structure assessment. We included English-language articles, case studies, letters, observational studies, and randomized controlled trials while excluding duplicates and studies unrelated to PCCT's application in dental imaging. Results: Studies have highlighted the superiority of PCCT in reducing artifacts, which are often problematic, compared to conventional CBCT and traditional CT scans, due to metallic dental implants, particularly when used with virtual monoenergetic imaging and iterative metal artifact reduction, thereby improving implant imaging. This review acknowledges limitations, such as the potential for overlooking other advanced imaging technologies, a narrow study timeframe, the lack of real-world clinical application data in this field, and costs. Conclusions: PCCT represents a promising advancement in dental imaging, offering high-resolution visuals, enhanced contrast, and rapid scanning with reduced radiation exposure.

Impact of clinical radiation audits on patient radiation exposure in cardiac implantable electronic device procedures

Impact of clinical radiation audits on patient radiation exposure in cardiac implantable electronic device procedures

Radiation exposure of patients from computed tomography for COVID-19 diagnosis

BackgroundDuring the global Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, numerous computed tomography (CT) scans were conducted to assess pulmonary abnormalities associated with COVID-19. A number of studies have contributed to our current understanding of radiation doses in the context of chest CT scans for COVID-19 diagnosis, but there remains a discernible gap in the literature regarding organ-level dose assessments. Materials and methodsWe estimated organ and effective dose for the COVID-19-related chest CT patients in the following three steps. First, we collected CTDIvol and DLP from the literature published during and after COVID-19 pandemic period. Second, we developed the probability density functions (PDFs) for the CTDIvol and the starting location of CT scans by age groups from which 1000 sets of patient and technique parameters were created. With CT organ dose calculation software, National Cancer Institute dosimetry system for CT (NCICT), we calculated 1000 sets of plausible organ and effective doses and evaluated summary statistics for the patient population. ResultsThe standard dose protocol administered approximately five times higher CTDIvol (5.4 mGy) to patients undergoing COVID-19-related chest CT scans compared to the low dose protocol (1.1 mGy). The median lung dose (11.8 mGy) for the 1-year-old patients was about 1.5 times greater than that (7.8 mGy) of the adult patients. We found that 75% of whole COVID-19-related CT patients would have received effective doses less than 6.4 mSv and 1.5 mSv when scanned by standard dose and low dose protocols, respectively. ConclusionWe evaluated the distribution of organ and effective dose for the COVID-19-related chest CT patients worldwide by collecting comprehensive data of CTDIvol for the COVID-19-related chest CT scans from the literature and combining them with NCICT organ dose calculator. While past studies have predominantly reported basic CT dose descriptors, our work takes it a step further by reporting organ-level doses and effective doses. Subsequent research endeavors could involve enhancing the precision of radiation dose assessment through the collection of a subset of electronic CT records.

Assessment of Lung Nodule Detection and Lung CT Screening Reporting and Data System Classification Using Zero Echo Time Pulmonary MRI.

The detection rate of lung nodules has increased considerably with CT as the primary method of examination, and the repeated CT examinations at 3 months, 6 months or annually, based on nodule characteristics, have increased the radiation exposure of patients. So, it is urgent to explore a radiation-free MRI examination method that can effectively address the challenges posed by low proton density and magnetic field inhomogeneities. To evaluate the potential of zero echo time (ZTE) MRI in lung nodule detection and lung CT screening reporting and data system (lung-RADS) classification, and to explore the value of ZTE-MRI in the assessment of lung nodules. Prospective. 54 patients, including 21 men and 33 women. Chest CT using a 16-slice scanner and ZTE-MRI at 3.0T based on fast gradient echo. Nodule type (ground-glass nodules, part-solid nodules, and solid nodules), lung-RADS classification, and nodule diameter (manual measurement) on CT and ZTE-MRI images were recorded. The percent of concordant cases, Kappa value, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Spearman's correlation, and Bland-Altman. The p-value <0.05 is considered significant. A total of 54 patients (age, 54.8 ± 11.9 years; 21 men) with 63 nodules were enrolled. Compared with CT, the total nodule detection rate of ZTE-MRI was 85.7%. The intermodality agreement of ZTE-MRI and CT lung nodules type evaluation was substantial (Kappa = 0.761), and the intermodality agreement of ZTE-MRI and CT lung-RADS classification was moderate (Kappa = 0.592). The diameter measurements between ZTE-MRI and CT showed no significant difference and demonstrated a high degree of interobserver (ICC = 0.997-0.999) and intermodality (ICC = 0.956-0.985) agreements. The measurement of nodule diameter by pulmonary ZTE-MRI is similar to that by CT, but the ability of lung-RADS to classify nodes from MRI images still requires further research. 2 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.

Lung ultrasound and procalcitonin, improving antibiotic management and avoiding radiation exposure in pediatric critical patients with bacterial pneumonia: a randomized clinical trial

BackgroundPneumonia is a major public health problem with an impact on morbidity and mortality. Its management still represents a challenge. The aim was to determine whether a new diagnostic algorithm combining lung ultrasound (LUS) and procalcitonin (PCT) improved pneumonia management regarding antibiotic use, radiation exposure, and associated costs, in critically ill pediatric patients with suspected bacterial pneumonia (BP).MethodsRandomized, blinded, comparative effectiveness clinical trial. Children < 18y with suspected BP admitted to the PICU from September 2017 to December 2019, were included. PCT was determined at admission. Patients were randomized into the experimental group (EG) and control group (CG) if LUS or chest X-ray (CXR) were done as the first image test, respectively. Patients were classified: 1.LUS/CXR not suggestive of BP and PCT < 1 ng/mL, no antibiotics were recommended; 2.LUS/CXR suggestive of BP, regardless of the PCT value, antibiotics were recommended; 3.LUS/CXR not suggestive of BP and PCT > 1 ng/mL, antibiotics were recommended.Results194 children were enrolled, 113 (58.2%) females, median age of 134 (IQR 39–554) days. 96 randomized into EG and 98 into CG. 1. In 75/194 patients the image test was not suggestive of BP with PCT < 1 ng/ml; 29/52 in the EG and 11/23 in the CG did not receive antibiotics. 2. In 101 patients, the image was suggestive of BP; 34/34 in the EG and 57/67 in the CG received antibiotics. Statistically significant differences between groups were observed when PCT resulted < 1 ng/ml (p = 0.01). 3. In 18 patients the image test was not suggestive of BP but PCT resulted > 1 ng/ml, all of them received antibiotics. A total of 0.035 mSv radiation/patient was eluded. A reduction of 77% CXR/patient was observed. LUS did not significantly increase costs.ConclusionsCombination of LUS and PCT showed no risk of mistreating BP, avoided radiation and did not increase costs. The algorithm could be a reliable tool for improving pneumonia management.Clinical Trial Registration: NCT04217980.

Evolution of Cervical Endoscopic Spine Surgery: Current Progress and Future Directions-A Narrative Review.

Cervical endoscopic spine surgery is rapidly evolving and gaining popularity for the treatment of cervical radiculopathy and myelopathy. This approach significantly reduces muscular damage and blood loss by minimizing soft tissue stripping, leading to less postoperative pain and a faster postoperative recovery. As scientific evidence accumulates, the efficacy and safety of cervical endoscopic spine surgery are continually affirmed. Both anterior and posterior endoscopic approaches have surfaced as viable alternative treatments for various cervical spine pathologies. Newer techniques, such as endoscopic-assisted fusion, the anterior transcorporeal approach, and unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression, have been developed to enhance clinical outcomes and broaden surgical indications. Despite its advantages, this approach faces challenges, including a steep learning curve, increased radiation exposure for both surgeons and patients, and a relative limitation in addressing multi-level pathologies. However, the future of cervical endoscopic spine surgery is promising, with potential enhancements in clinical outcomes and safety on the horizon. This progress is fueled by integrating advanced imaging and navigation technologies, applying regional anesthesia for improved and facilitated postoperative recovery, and incorporating cutting-edge technologies, such as augmented reality. With these advancements, cervical endoscopic spine surgery is poised to broaden its scope in treating cervical spine pathologies while maintaining the benefits of minimized tissue damage and rapid recovery.

Patient radiation exposure dose reduction using stent-enhanced image processing in percutaneous coronary intervention.

We investigated the reduction in patient radiation exposure dose during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) by stent enhancement processing. We examined the effects of dose reduction based on the image quality of stent enhancement processing using a purpose-built dynamic phantom. We evaluated the image contrast (IC) of the stent in stent-enhanced images (SVref), digital angiography (DA), and stent-enhanced images with a 20%, 40%, and 60% lower imaging doses (SV20, SV40, and SV60). We visually evaluated graininess and stent shape using the mean opinion score (MOS) and retrospectively evaluated the acquisition duration of stent enhancement in PCI cases; finally, we estimated the decrease in patient radiation exposure due to stent enhancement. The image contrast of SVref at phantom thicknesses of 20cm was 51.25 ± 3.82, while the image contrast of DA was significantly reduced at 14.90 ± 1.57 (p < 0.05). We observed a significant decrease in the MOS of graininess in SV60 and MOS of stent shape in DA (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the average imaging duration for stent enhancement using PCI was 22.65 ± 7.43s, and the maximum imaging duration was 68.07s. We hypothesize that patient radiation exposure dose can be reduced by up to 60.17mGy by lowering the imaging dose during the stent enhancement process. Stent enhancement processing improves the visibility of stent images, and can reduce radiation exposure by approximately 40% during confirmation imaging of stents. Our study contributes to the reduction of radiation exposure dose for operators and patients in PCI.

XTransCT: ultra-fast volumetric CT reconstruction using two orthogonal x-ray projections for image-guided radiation therapy via a transformer network

Objective. The aim of this study was to reconstruct volumetric computed tomography (CT) images in real-time from ultra-sparse two-dimensional x-ray projections, facilitating easier navigation and positioning during image-guided radiation therapy. Approach. Our approach leverages a voxel-sapce-searching Transformer model to overcome the limitations of conventional CT reconstruction techniques, which require extensive x-ray projections and lead to high radiation doses and equipment constraints. Main results. The proposed XTransCT algorithm demonstrated superior performance in terms of image quality, structural accuracy, and generalizability across different datasets, including a hospital set of 50 patients, the large-scale public LIDC-IDRI dataset, and the LNDb dataset for cross-validation. Notably, the algorithm achieved an approximately 300% improvement in reconstruction speed, with a rate of 44 ms per 3D image reconstruction compared to former 3D convolution-based methods. Significance. The XTransCT architecture has the potential to impact clinical practice by providing high-quality CT images faster and with substantially reduced radiation exposure for patients. The model's generalizability suggests it has the potential applicable in various healthcare settings.

Quantifying radiation exposure in the radiological investigation of non-arthritic hip pain

ABSTRACT Radiological investigations are essential for evaluating underlying structural abnormalities in patients presenting with non-arthritic hip pain. The aim of this study is to quantify the radiation exposure associated with common radiological investigations performed in assessing patients presenting with non-arthritic hip pain. A retrospective review of our institutional imaging database was performed. Data were obtained for antero-posterior, cross-table lateral, frog lateral radiographs and low-dose CT hip protocol. The radiation dose of each imaging technique was measured in terms of dose-area product with units of mGy cm2, and the effective doses (ED, mSv) calculated. The effective radiation dose for each individual hip radiograph performed was in the range of 0.03–0.83 mSv [mean dose-area product 126.7–156.2 mGy cm2]. The mean ED associated with the low-dose CT hip protocol (including assessment of femoral anteversion and tibial torsion) was 3.04 mSv (416.8 mGy cm2). The radiation dose associated with the use of CT imaging was significantly greater than plain radiographs (P &amp;lt; 0.005). Investigation of non-arthritic hip pain can lead to significant ionizing radiation exposure for patients. In our institution, the routine protocol is to obtain an antero-posterior pelvic radiograph and then a specific hip sequence Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan which includes the assessment of femoral anteversion. This provides the necessary information in the majority of cases, with CT scanning reserved for more complex cases where we feel there is a specific indication. We would encourage the hip preservation community to carefully consider and review the use of ionizing radiation investigations.

Patient Radiation Exposure Monitoring in Medical Imaging (IAEA Safety Report Series No. 112)

Patient Radiation Exposure Monitoring in Medical Imaging (IAEA Safety Report Series No. 112)

Diagnostic Accuracy of Renal Artery Resistive Index in Diagnosing Obstructive Uropathy

Background: Obstructive uropathy, a common cause of acute and chronic kidney disease, poses diagnostic challenges, particularly when non-invasive methods are preferred to reduce patient exposure to ionizing radiation from CT scans. The renal artery resistive index (RI) measured by Doppler ultrasound presents a potential non-invasive diagnostic tool, yet its accuracy and utility in clinical practice require further elucidation. Objective: To assess the diagnostic accuracy of the renal artery resistive index (RI) as measured by Doppler ultrasound in identifying obstructive uropathy, using CT scans as the gold standard for comparison. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 201 patients presenting with symptoms indicative of obstructive uropathy at a tertiary care hospital. Participants underwent both Doppler ultrasound to measure the renal artery RI and non-contrast CT scans of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder (KUB). The diagnostic performance of the RI was evaluated in terms of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and overall accuracy, with CT scan findings serving as the benchmark. Results: The study cohort had a mean age of 43.02±15.62 years, with a male predominance (64.7%). The renal artery RI demonstrated a sensitivity of 81.13%, specificity of 85.81%, PPV of 67.19%, NPV of 92.70%, and an overall accuracy of 84.58% in diagnosing obstructive uropathy. Calculi were more frequently located in the right urinary tract (54.2%) than the left (45.8%), with the majority being smaller than 1 cm (79.1%). Conclusion: The renal artery resistive index (RI) measured by Doppler ultrasound is a highly accurate diagnostic tool for detecting obstructive uropathy, offering a viable, non-invasive alternative to CT scans. This method could significantly reduce unnecessary radiation exposure in patients, aligning with current healthcare priorities for safety and efficiency.

Comparison of Virtual Non-Contrast and True Non-Contrast CT Images Obtained by Dual-Layer Spectral CT in COPD Patients.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the leading causes of death. Recent studies have underlined the importance of non-contrast-enhanced chest CT scans not only for emphysema progression quantification, but for correlation with clinical outcomes as well. As about 40 percent of the 300 million CT scans per year are contrast-enhanced, no proper emphysema quantification is available in a one-stop-shop approach for patients with known or newly diagnosed COPD. Since the introduction of spectral imaging (e.g., dual-energy CT scanners), it has been possible to create virtual non-contrast-enhanced images (VNC) from contrast-enhanced images, making it theoretically possible to offer proper COPD imaging despite contrast enhancing. This study is aimed towards investigating whether these VNC images are comparable to true non-contrast-enhanced images (TNC), thereby reducing the radiation exposure of patients and usage of resources in hospitals. In total, 100 COPD patients with two scans, one with (VNC) and one without contrast media (TNC), within 8 weeks or less obtained by a spectral CT using dual-layer technology, were included in this retrospective study. TNC and VNC were compared according to their voxel-density histograms. While the comparison showed significant differences in the low attenuated volumes (LAVs) of TNC and VNC regarding the emphysema threshold of -950 Houndsfield Units (HU), the 15th and 10th percentiles of the LAVs used as a proxy for pre-emphysema were comparable. Upon further investigation, the threshold-based LAVs (-950 HU) of TNC and VNC were comparable in patients with a water equivalent diameter (DW) below 270 mm. The study concludes that VNC imaging may be a viable option for assessing emphysema progression in COPD patients, particularly those with a normal body mass index (BMI). Further, pre-emphysema was generally comparable between TNC and VNC. This approach could potentially reduce radiation exposure and hospital resources by making additional TNC scans obsolete.

Assessing Patient Radiation Exposure in Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography: A Multicenter Retrospective Analysis of Procedural Complexity and Clinical Factors.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) procedures can result in significant patient radiation exposure. This retrospective multicenter study aimed to assess the influence of procedural complexity and other clinical factors on radiation exposure in ERCP. Data on kerma-area product (KAP), air-kerma at the reference point (Ka,r), fluoroscopy time, and the number of exposures, and relevant patient, procedure, and operator factors were collected from 2641 ERCP procedures performed at four university hospitals. The influence of procedural complexity, assessed using the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) and HOUSE complexity grading scales, on radiation exposure quantities was analyzed within each center. The procedures were categorized into two groups based on ERCP indications: primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and other ERCPs. Both the ASGE and HOUSE complexity grading scales had a significant impact on radiation exposure quantities. Remarkably, there was up to a 50-fold difference in dose quantities observed across the participating centers. For non-PSC ERCP procedures, the median KAP ranged from 0.9 to 64.4 Gy·cm2 among the centers. The individual endoscopist also had a substantial influence on radiation dose. Procedural complexity grading in ERCP significantly affects radiation exposure. Higher procedural complexity is typically associated with increased patient radiation dose. The ASGE complexity grading scale demonstrated greater sensitivity to changes in radiation exposure compared to the HOUSE grading scale. Additionally, significant variations in dose indices, fluoroscopy times, and number of exposures were observed across the participating centers.

High-resolution computed tomography with scattered X-ray radiation and a single pixel detector

X-ray imaging is a prevalent technique for non-invasively visualizing the interior of the human body and other opaque samples. In most commercial X-ray modalities, an image is formed by measuring the X-rays that pass through the object of interest. However, despite the potential of scattered radiation to provide additional information about the object, it is often disregarded due to its inherent tendency to cause blurring. Consequently, conventional imaging modalities do not measure or utilize these valuable data. In contrast, we propose and experimentally demonstrate a high resolution technique for X-ray computed tomography (CT) that measures scattered radiation by exploiting computational ghost imaging (CGI). We show that the resolution of our method can exceed 500 µm, which is approximately an order of magnitude higher than the typical resolution of X-ray imaging modalities based on scattered radiation. Our research reveals a promising technique for incorporating scattered radiation data in CT scans to improve image contrast and resolution while minimizing radiation exposure for patients. The findings of our study suggest that our technique could represent a significant advancement in the fields of medical and industrial imaging, with the potential to enhance the accuracy and safety of diagnostic imaging procedures.

The paediatric polytrauma CT-indication (PePCI)-score–Development of a prognostic model to reduce unnecessary CT scans in paediatric trauma patients

BackgroundWhole-Body CT (WBCT) is frequently used in emergency situations for promptly diagnosing paediatric polytrauma patients, given the challenges associated with obtaining precise details about the mechanism and progression of trauma. However, WBCT does not lead to reduced mortality in paediatric patients, but is associated with high radiation exposure. We therefore wanted to develop a screening tool for CT demand-driven emergency room (ER)-trauma diagnostic to reduce radiation exposure in paediatric patients. MethodsA retrospective study in a Level I trauma centre in Germany was performed. Data from 344 paediatric emergency patients with critical mechanism of injury who were pre-announced by the ambulance for the trauma room were collected. Patients’ symptoms, clinical examination, extended Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (eFAST), routinely, laboratory tests and blood gas and - when obtained - WBCT images were analysed. To identify potential predictors of severe injuries (ISS > 23), 300 of the 344 cases with complete data were subjected to regression analyses model. ResultsMultiple regression analysis identified cGCS, base excess (BE), medically abnormal results from eFAST screening, initial unconsciousness, and injuries involving three or more body regions as significant predictors for a screening tool for decision-making to perform WBCT or selective CT. The developed Paediatric polytrauma CT-Indication (PePCI)-Score was divided into three risk categories and achieved a sensitivity of 87 % and a specificity of 71 % when comparing the low and medium risk groups with the high risk group. Comparing only the low-risk group with the high-risk group for the decision to perform WBCT, 32/35 (91 %) of patients with an ISS >23 were correctly identified, as were 124/137 (91 %) with lower ISS scores. ConclusionWith the newly developed PePCI-Score, the frequency of WBCT in a paediatric emergency patients collective can be significantly reduced according to our data. After prospective validation, the initial assessment of paediatric trauma patients in the future could be made not only by the mechanism of injury, but also by the new PePCI-Score, deriving on clinical findings after thorough clinical assessment and the discretion of the trauma team.

Comparison of safety and effectiveness of different sheaths in ablation of focal atrial tachycardia: a retrospective study.

A novel visualized steerable sheath, referred to as the Vizigo sheath, has been utilized in clinical interventions. The objective of this study was to evaluate and contrast the efficacy and safety of the Vizigo sheath with other sheaths in the catheter ablation (CA) for focal atrial tachycardia (FAT). A retrospective cohort study was conducted on consecutive patients with CA for FAT from March 2019 to February 2022. Objectives were to assess the impact of the Vizigo sheath on acute and long-term ablation success rates, procedural and fluoroscopy times, and contact force (CF). A total of 164 patients, mean age 50±15 years, 97 (59.1%) women, underwent CA of FAT using the Vizigo sheath (N=42), non-visualized steerable sheath (N=36), or other conventional sheath (N=86). Age, sex, body mass index (BMI), presence of hypertension, heart failure, and diabetes mellitus were not significantly different among the three groups. The acute success rate of 94.0% was similar among the three groups. Over a follow-up of 14±2 months, the Vizigo sheath was associated with superior arrhythmia-free survival (88.1%) when compared to non-visualized steerable (69.4%; P=0.04) and other conventional (72.1%, P=0.046) sheaths. Procedural duration, number of ablation lesions, and ablation times were similar among the three groups. However, the Vizigo sheath was associated with lower fluoroscopy times (e.g., 145 vs. 250 s with Vizigo versus non-visualized steerable sheaths, P=0.03) and higher CF (e.g., average CF 12.0 versus 8.0 g with Vizigo versus non-visualized steerable sheaths, P=0.003). The application of Vizigo sheath can improve the long-term success rate of FAT and reduce the radiation exposure of patients and medical staff in our single-center limited sample study. More research may be needed in the future to confirm our findings.