Use Of Computed Tomography Imaging Research Articles

Commissioning of MRI-guided gynaecological brachytherapy using an MR-linac.

To evaluate the feasibility of use of an 1.5 T magnetic resonance (MR)-linear accelerator MR-linac for imaging in gynaecologic high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy.
Method: Commissioning measurements for MR images quality control, geometric distortion, dwell position accuracy, applicator reconstruction and end-to-end test for a tandem-and-ring applicator were performed following the recommendations of American Brachytherapy Society, International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements and Report of the Brachytherapy Working Group of the Spanish Society of Medical Physics. The values for MR-based IGABT were compared to the corresponding values with computed tomography (CT).
Results: Measured distorsions for the MR images were less than 0.50 mm compared to the CT images. The differences between 3D displacements for all dwell positions were 0.66 mm and 0.62 mm for the tandem and ring, respectively. The maximum difference is 0.64 mm for the distances from the applicator tip obtained using the films. The CT and MR dose differences for the right and left 'A' points were 0.9% and -0.7%, respectively. Similar results were observed in terms of dose distribution for CT and MR. The gamma passing rate was 99.3% and 99.5%, respectively.
Conclusion: The use of MR images from an MR-linac used in a radiotherapy service for gynaecological brachytherapy was proved to be feasible, safe and precise as the geometrical differences were less than 1 mm, and the dosimetric differences were less than 1% when comparing to the use of CT images for the same purpose.

Predictors of computed tomography imaging in patients presenting with sudden hearing loss.

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is a rare presentation requiring timely diagnosis and treatment. Despite recommendations against obtaining computed tomography (CT) imaging of the head in clinical practice guidelines, this investigation is often completed in patients with sudden hearing loss. The aim of this study was to determine the proportion of patients undergoing CT imaging of the head for SSNHL at our center and identify predictive factors for the use of CT imaging. Retrospective chart review of adult patients referred for SSNHL to two academic otology/neurotology practices between January 2018 and May 2021. Patient demographics, comorbid medical conditions, associated symptoms, location of initial presentation, audiologic results, and completed imaging studies were collected. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS software. Ninety-eight patients with audiologically confirmed SSNHL were included. Twenty-two patients (22.4%) underwent CT imaging as an investigation for SSNHL. The presence of vertigo (odds ratio 6.90; 95% confidence interval 2.43, 19.56) and presentation to the emergency room (odds ratio 8.71; 95% confidence interval 3.02, 25.16) were significantly associated with undergoing CT imaging. These two variables were statistically significant independent predictors of CT imaging on multivariate regression analysis (p = .01, p = .001, respectively). A significant proportion of patients with SSNHL undergo low-yield CT imaging of the head, particularly patients presenting to the emergency room with vertigo. These results highlight an opportunity for focused education and quality improvement initiatives.Level of evidence: 4.

A Comprehensive Review of Advancements in Diagnostic Imaging: Unveiling Oral Cavity Malignancies Using Computed Tomography.

Early detection of oral cavity malignancies is essential for improving treatment outcomes and patient survival rates. Diagnostic imaging, particularly computed tomography (CT), plays a pivotal role in the early identification and detailed assessment of these malignancies. This comprehensive review explores the advancements in CT imaging and its application in diagnosing oral cavity cancers. It discusses the anatomy and physiology of the oral cavity, the clinical characteristics of common malignancies, and the principles and protocols of CT imaging. The review highlights the diagnostic features of oral malignancies on CT, including distinguishing benign from malignant lesions and staging criteria. Emerging technologies, such as higher-resolution imaging, integration with other modalities, and the potential of artificial intelligence, are examined for their role in enhancing diagnostic accuracy. The clinical implications, challenges, and future directions in the use of CT imaging for oral cavity malignancies are also discussed. This review underscores the importance of continued research and technological advancements in optimizing the use of CT for early detection and effective management of oral cavity cancers.

Patterns of practice of image guided particle therapy for cranio-spinal irradiation: A site specific multi-institutional survey of European Particle Therapy Network

PurposeTo investigate the current practice patterns in image-guided particle therapy (IGPT) for cranio-spinal irradiation (CSI). MethodsA multi-institutional survey was distributed to European particle therapy centres to analyse all aspects of IGPT. Based on the survey results, a Delphi consensus analysis was developed to define minimum requirements and optimal workflow for clinical practice. The centres participating in the institutional survey were invited to join the Delphi process. ResultsEleven centres participated in the survey. Imaging for treatment planning was rather similar among the centres with Computed Tomography (CT) being the main modality. For positioning verification, 2D IGPT was more commonly used than 3D IGPT. Two centres performed routinely imaging for plan adaptation, by the rest ad hoc. Eight centres participated in the Delphi consensus analysis. The full consensus was reached on the use of CT imaging without contrast for treatment planning and the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in target and organs-at-risk delineation. There was an agreement on the necessity to perform patient position verification and correction before each isocentre. The most important outcome was the clear need for standardization and harmonization of the workflow. ConclusionThere were differences in CSI IGPT clinical practice among the European particle therapy centres. Moreover, the optimal workflow as identified by experts was not yet reached. There is a strong need for consensus guidelines. The state-of-the-art imaging technology and protocols need to be implemented into clinical practice to improve the quality of IGPT for CSI.

Deformable 3D/3D CT-to-digital-tomosynthesis image registration in image-guided bronchoscopy interventions

Traditional navigational bronchoscopy procedures rely on preprocedural computed tomography (CT) and intraoperative chest radiography and cone-beam CT (CBCT) to biopsy peripheral lung lesions. This navigational approach is challenging due to the projective nature of radiography, and the high radiation dose, long imaging time, and large footprints of CBCT. Digital tomosynthesis (DTS) is considered an attractive alternative combining the advantages of radiography and CBCT. Only the depth resolution cannot match a full CBCT image due to the limited angle acquisition. To address this issue, preoperative CT is a good auxiliary in guiding bronchoscopy interventions. Nevertheless, CT-to-body divergence caused by anatomic changes and respiratory motion, hinders the effective use of CT imaging. To mitigate CT-to-body divergence, we propose a novel deformable 3D/3D CT-to-DTS registration algorithm employing a multistage, multiresolution approach and using affine and elastic B-spline transformation models with bone and lung mask images. A multiresolution strategy with a Gaussian image pyramid and a multigrid strategy within the B-spline model are applied. The normalized correlation coefficient is included in the cost function for the affine model and a multimetric weighted cost function is used for the B-spline model, with weights determined heuristically. Tested on simulated and real patient bronchoscopy data, the algorithm yields promising results. Assessed qualitatively by visual inspection and quantitatively by computing the Dice coefficient (DC) and the average symmetric surface distance (ASSD), the algorithm achieves mean DC of 0.82±0.05 and 0.74±0.05, and mean ASSD of 0.65±0.29mm and 0.93±0.43mm for simulated and real data, respectively. This algorithm lays the groundwork for CT-aided intraoperative DTS imaging in image-guided bronchoscopy interventions with future studies focusing on automated metric weight setting.

Targeted Nanotheransotics: Integration of Preclinical MRI and CT in the Molecular Imaging and Therapy of Advanced Diseases.

The integration of preclinical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) methods has significantly enhanced the area of therapy and imaging of targeted nanomedicine. Nanotheranostics, which make use of nanoparticles, are a significant advancement in MRI and CT imaging. In addition to giving high-resolution anatomical features and functional information simultaneously, these multifunctional agents improve contrast when used. In addition to enabling early disease detection, precise localization, and personalised therapy monitoring, they also enable early disease detection. Fusion of MRI and CT enables precise in vivo tracking of drug-loaded nanoparticles. MRI, which provides real-time monitoring of nanoparticle distribution, accumulation, and release at the cellular and tissue levels, can be used to assess the efficacy of drug delivery systems. The precise localization of nanoparticles within the body is achievable through the use of CT imaging. This technique enhances the capabilities of MRI by providing high-resolution anatomical information. CT also allows for quantitative measurements of nanoparticle concentration, which is essential for evaluating the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of nanomedicine. In this article, we emphasize the integration of preclinical MRI and CT into molecular imaging and therapy for advanced diseases.

The role of chest X-ray in the early diagnosis and staging of sarcoidosis: Is it really should be done?

BackgroundSarcoidosis is a chronic granulomatous disease characterized by non-caseating granuloma. The conventional chest X-ray (CXR) has important role in the diagnosis, staging and follow-up of disease. Computed tomography (CT) is a second-line imaging method used to determine the extent, complications and differential diagnosis of sarcoidosis. ObjectivesTo determine the role of CXR in the early diagnosis and staging of sarcoidosis and to compare with CT imaging. MethodsOne hundred and nine sarcoidosis patients followed at a single center were included in the study. Demographic, radiological, and clinical data of 81 patients were obtained from a total of 109 patients, and the record data of these 81 patients were evaluated. Patients who could not be reached for all tests were excluded from the study. CXR and CT imaging taken at diagnosis were evaluated retrospectively independently from two radiologists and one rheumatologist. ResultsAmong 109 patients, eighty-one patients CXR and CT imaging taken at the same center has been reached. Among 81 sarcoidosis patients 23 (28.4%) were male, 58 (71.6%) were female. The mean patients age was 46.4 years and the mean disease duration was 3.8 years. CXR is regarded as normal at diagnosis in 30 patients (37%), while all of these patients had findings consistent with sarcoidosis on CT imaging. CT imaging are more superior than CXR in the early diagnosis and staging of sarcoidosis (p=0.001). Also CT imaging is more superior for detection of disease extent and complications. ConclusionsIn this study, we observed that CT imaging outperforms CXR in terms of early detection and staging of sarcoidosis. The use of CT imaging is important for early diagnosis and staging of sarcoidosis. The low performance of CXR is a condition that requires the discussion of this method. Multicenter prospective study is needed in this regard.

Assessment of Unjustified Brain Ct Requests in The Emergency Room of The Public Health Care System in Palestine Case Study: Hebron Governmental Hospital

Computed tomography (CT), which gives doctors a precise cross-sectional image that clearly shows the features of the organs, is one of the most crucial pieces of medical imaging equipment. In contrast to other equipment, the CT scan may expose the patient to a very high dose of radiation. As a result of the hazards associated with imaging patients, the use of CT images must be restricted, especially when imaging the head. The aim of the study is to the evaluation of the percentage of unjustified brain CT requests at the emergency rooms of the governmental health sector in Palestine. The 1957-built Hebron Governmental Hospital (HGH) was chosen as a research study case with a clinical capacity of 237 beds and 596 staff members; it is one of the key Palestinian government hospitals currently operating in the Hebron Governorate of the West Bank-Palestine. Samples were taken from the hospital's emergency room between the first of the year and the end of the year in 2021. 6152 or so brain CT images were gathered. Following that, 500 instances were picked for the investigation. Radiologists were asked to assess 100 of these 500 cases to determine whether the patient needed a scan or not. According to the study, 78% of brain tomography images were for unjustifiable reasons. Additionally, it was revealed by the study's results that unnecessary head CT scans were more common than those from retrospective investigations. In particular, non-specialized doctors who request cross-sectional brain imaging for no apparent reason are to blame for this because of their lack of knowledge.

Prevalence of Computed Tomography Overuse for Mild Head Injury in Adults.

The Canadian CT Head Rule (CCHR) is one of many established guidelines for assessing the need for computed tomography (CT) imaging in patients with minor head injuries. Adhering to such criteria would promote the appropriate use of CT imaging, lower healthcare expenses, and prevent harmful radiation exposure. There is no current literature assessing the overuse of CT imaging for minor head injuries in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This study aims to evaluate CT overuse in adult patients with minor head trauma. Methods: The study was conducted at the Bahrain Defense Force Hospital over 12 months from January to December 2021. All adult patients (>14 years) who sustained a minor head injury and were referred to the emergency department for CT brain imaging were included in the study. Patients presenting for other reasons or suffering from moderate to severe head injuries were excluded. CT reports were retrieved for analysis. The CCHR was used as a reference. Results: A total of 486 CT scans were performed. Loss of consciousness was the most commonsymptom on presentation (n = 74 cases). Only 12.1% of CT scans reported positive findings. The prevalence of CT overuse was highest in patients aged 21-30 years. Patients presenting with loss of consciousness showed a high overuse of CT imaging, accounting for 20.3% of all cases. Only 77.4% of cases met the CCHR criteria and 22.6% were defined as overuse, with 95% confidence interval (0.189, 0.266). Conclusion: When referring to the CCHR, CT imaging for a minor head injury in adults was overused in 22.6% of cases. Further research will be required to reveal the underlying reasons for these findings along with interventions to reduce future overuse.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of computed tomography in the diagnosis of pediatric foreign body aspiration

Rigid bronchoscopy remains the gold standard for the diagnosis of foreign body aspiration (FBA) despite high rates of negative bronchoscopies. The use of computed tomography (CT) imaging in the assessment of FBA has recently emerged and could help obviate unnecessary bronchoscopy in these patients. The aim of this study is to assess the diagnostic accuracy of CT in the diagnosis of pediatric FBA. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify studies reporting the use of CT imaging in suspected pediatric FBA. The search included published articles in Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, PubMed MEDLINE and Web of Science. The search strategy included all articles from inception of the database to January 2021. Manuscripts were reviewed and graded for quality using the QUADAS-2 tool. Subgroup analyses based on the use of virtual bronchoscopy (VB) and sedation was conducted. A meta-analysis evaluating the use of VB in the diagnosis of FBA was also conducted. Sixteen manuscripts met all inclusion criteria. In total, 2056 pediatric patients ranging from 0.3 to 15 years underwent CT for suspected FBA. The sensitivity and specificity of CT were 98.8% and 96.6%, respectively. VB was used in 71.4% (1391/1948) of patients while sedation during CT was required in 70.2% (1263/1800) of patients. Radiation dosing ranged from 0.04 to 2mSv, 0.99-59.1mGy-cm and 0.03-16.99mGy. CT can accurately diagnose pediatric FBA and can help decrease the rate of unnecessary bronchoscopies with an acceptable dose of radiation.

Occult pediatric skull fracture and implications for delay in diagnosis: illustrative case.

After being struck in the left side of the head by a thin metal rod, a 10-year-old, previously healthy male presented to an urgent care clinic with a subcentimeter scalp laceration in the midline parietal area and a normal neurological exam. Evaluation included skull radiographs, which did not demonstrate a definitive fracture. Following laceration repair, the patient was discharged to home. Subsequently, progressive neurological symptoms prompted his family to bring him back for evaluation 2 days later, and computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an open, depressed skull fracture. Surgical intervention was performed with debridement and closure. The patient was placed on a course of intravenous antibiotics and had no subsequent evidence of infection. In cases involving potential cranial perforation by a thin projectile, use of CT imaging or MRI, rather than plain radiographs, may prevent a delay in diagnosis and subsequent complications.

Comparison between MR and CT imaging used to correct for skull-induced phase aberrations during transcranial focused ultrasound

Transcranial focused ultrasound with the InSightec Exablate system uses thermal ablation for the treatment of movement and mood disorders and blood brain barrier disruption for tumor therapy. The system uses computed tomography (CT) images to calculate phase corrections that account for aberrations caused by the human skull. This work investigates whether magnetic resonance (MR) images can be used as an alternative to CT images to calculate phase corrections. Phase corrections were calculated using the gold standard hydrophone method and the standard of care InSightec ray tracing method. MR binary image mask, MR-simulated-CT (MRsimCT), and CT images of three ex vivo human skulls were supplied as inputs to the InSightec ray tracing method. The degassed ex vivo human skulls were sonicated with a 670 kHz hemispherical phased array transducer (InSightec Exablate 4000). 3D raster scans of the beam profiles were acquired using a hydrophone mounted on a 3-axis positioner system. Focal spots were evaluated using six metrics: pressure at the target, peak pressure, intensity at the target, peak intensity, positioning error, and focal spot volume. Targets at the geometric focus and 5 mm lateral to the geometric focus were investigated. There was no statistical difference between any of the metrics at either target using either MRsimCT or CT for phase aberration correction. As opposed to the MRsimCT, the use of CT images for aberration correction requires registration to the treatment day MR images; CT misregistration within a range of ± 2 degrees of rotation error along three dimensions was shown to reduce focal spot intensity by up to 9.4%. MRsimCT images used for phase aberration correction for the skull produce similar results as CT-based correction, while avoiding both CT to MR registration errors and unnecessary patient exposure to ionizing radiation.

Spectral Photon-Counting Computed Tomography: A Review on Technical Principles and Clinical Applications.

Photon-counting computed tomography (CT) is a technology that has attracted increasing interest in recent years since, thanks to new-generation detectors, it holds the promise to radically change the clinical use of CT imaging. Photon-counting detectors overcome the major limitations of conventional CT detectors by providing very high spatial resolution without electronic noise, providing a higher contrast-to-noise ratio, and optimizing spectral images. Additionally, photon-counting CT can lead to reduced radiation exposure, reconstruction of higher spatial resolution images, reduction of image artifacts, optimization of the use of contrast agents, and create new opportunities for quantitative imaging. The aim of this review is to briefly explain the technical principles of photon-counting CT and, more extensively, the potential clinical applications of this technology.

Cardiac computed tomography - Current diagnostic role in cardiology

Computed tomography (CT) imaging of the heart requires specific equipment and protocols in order to synchronize image generation with the electrocardiogram (ECG), usually achieved via ECG-gated reconstruction or ECG-triggered acquisition. The main application of cardiac CT is coronary artery imaging. Contrast-enhanced coronary artery CT allows the identification and rule-out of stenoses and is a diagnostic approach to patients with suspected chronic coronary artery disease or acute chest pain, provided that patient characteristics are associated with a high likelihood of fully diagnostic image quality. In addition, CT has the potential to visualize coronary atherosclerotic plaque, even if non-obstructive, and data suggest that this may be a valuable guide towards more intensive risk modification strategy such as statin therapy. In recent years, the use of CT imaging to guide structural heart interventions has become another important application, and many interventions, such as transcatheter aortic valve implantation, substantially depend on CT imaging to plan the procedure, minimize risks, and optimize outcome.

Referring physician perspective on how to handle frequent use of CT imaging

The increasing use of computed tomography (CT) and other relatively high radiation dose exams in a recurrent manner result in radiation risks to individual patients. Recent studies have provided alarming information not only to the radiological community but also to referring physicians. We, as referring physicians, are often implicated in the overuse of imaging. However, a recent paper rightfully summarized the situation that despite the best use of available clinical decision support system for prescribing an imaging exam at a major hospital in the USA, many patients were found to have high cumulative doses. Motivated by the cue provided by the paper in this very journal, we decided to come forward with a possible solution taking the example of the drug prescription system that we routinely use. We provide a template to translate prescription drug monitoring program to ionising radiation imaging. We suggest that all body CT exams should be monitored at an individual, prescriber, and institution level for frequency of use. Furthermore, there should be radiation risk stratification of an individual patient based on the cumulative radiation burden in recent years. Further, an individual’s radiation risk-stratified in different risk levels should be available for use by the referring/ordering clinicians at the point of care. Finally, we feel distanced by the use of multiple scary radiation dose quantities in different imaging modalities and would prefer as simple a metric as ‘milligram.’

Sarcopenia and microvascular free flap reconstruction.

This article reviews the recent literature regarding the impact of sarcopenia on microvascular free flap reconstruction outcomes. Malnutrition, and consequent muscle loss, is a prevalent issue among head and neck cancer patients. However, diagnosis remains challenging due to a paucity of reliable objective measures. Traditional markers, such as albumin, have been used in the past to assess nutritional status, but cancer-related inflammation limits their predictive value. Recently, developments in the diagnosis of sarcopenia through the novel use of computed tomography (CT) cross-sectional muscle mass indices to evaluate body composition have proven effective and accessible. Literature shows compelling evidence that sarcopenia is associated with higher rates of surgical complications that delay recovery and increase mortality. The use of CT imaging to quantify muscle loss offers an objective way to evaluate nutritional status, which is predictive of postoperative rates of complications. Research on ways to optimize muscle mass prior to surgery is limited, however, immunonutrition is emerging as a promising intervention that can attenuate sarcopenia-related inflammation to improve outcomes.

Transvenous lead revision for cardiac perforation: a single centre experience

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Cardiac perforation is an uncommon but life-threatening complication of cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) implantation. Management strategy commonly relies on diagnostic Computed Tomography (CT) imaging and cardiac surgery. Emerging evidence has indicated a diversion from this approach. Transvenous culprit lead revision has been shown to be safe and efficacious in limited series. We sought to evaluate the outcomes of transvenous lead revision in patients with cardiac perforation. Method Data was collected retrospectively of patients admitted to a single tertiary centre with CIED-related cardiac perforation between December 2013 – October 2019. Transvenous lead revision was performed as standard with cardiac surgery on standby. Patient demographics, use of CT imaging, method of removal and 30-day outcomes were recorded. Results Of the 46 recorded CIED-related cardiac perforations, the majority occurred in female patients (63%) and hypertensives (61%), whilst a proportion had cancer (20%) and ischaemic heart disease (30%). The culprit in most cases was a standard pacing lead (92%) of an active fixation (98%) in the right ventricle (80%) positioned at the ventricular apex (65%). The median time to presentation from implant was 14 days [IQR 4-50 days] with chest pain (44%); abnormal pacing indices was highly prevalent (95%) whilst a pericardial effusion was noted in the majority of cases (57%). CT scanning was performed in 19 cases (41%) for various indications but deemed essential in only 4, all of which had non-diagnostic pacing indices and imaging. Chest X-ray (CXR) found clear perforation, lead displacement or pleural effusion in 74% of cases, whilst an echocardiogram found these in 64% of cases. The culprit lead was replaced in the majority of cases (87%) under local anaesthesia (76%) with surgical backup. The median hospital stay was 7 days [IQR 3-10 days] with zero procedural and 30-day mortality. Conclusion Transvenous lead revision for CIED-related cardiac perforation is safe and efficacious. CT modality for diagnostic purposes is useful in providing incremental value in a minority of cases; patients with non-diagnostic pacing parameters and non-CT imaging benefit most from this.

Trends in Emergency Department Computed Tomography Usage for Diagnosis of Peritonsillar Abscess.

Peritonsillar abscess (PTA) is the most common deep neck space infection and a frequent cause for otolaryngology consultation. Patients often undergo computed tomography (CT) scan for confirmation in addition to physical examination. Our aims were to determine whether patients unnecessarily undergo CT scans in the emergency department (ED) when presenting with sore throat and identify physical examination characteristics that predict PTA. The electronic medical records of all patients (>18 years) presenting to an ED between June 2014 and June 2015 with a primary diagnosis of acute pharyngitis, acute tonsillitis, or PTA were reviewed for presenting symptoms and diagnostic imaging use. Four hundred eight patients met inclusion criteria; 21 were diagnosed with PTA, including 13 based on history and physical alone. A total of 21 CT scans were ordered, 11 (52.3%) of which did not demonstrate abscess. Soft palatal fullness, uvular deviation, drooling, and muffled voice were all significantly associated with increased CT usage (all P values <.02). Rising subjective pain scores were associated with increased use of CT imaging (P = .029). Multivariable analyses revealed that soft palatal fullness, uvular deviation, and drooling were all significant predictors of PTA (all P values <.001). Patients with severe symptoms of PTA, including uvular deviation, drooling, and soft palatal fullness, were most likely to undergo CT imaging. Given the high likelihood of PTA, patients presenting with these symptoms could forego CT imaging, reducing exposure to ionizing radiation.

Radiation risk for patients undergoing cardiac computed tomography examinations

The various technological advancements in computed tomography (CT) have resulted in remarkable growth in the use of CT imaging in clinical practice, not the least of which has been its establishment as the most valuable imaging examination for the assessment of cardiovascular system disorders. The objective of this study was to assess the effective radiation dose and radiation risk for patients during cardiac CT procedures, based on studies from four different hospitals equipped with 128 slice CT equipment. A total of eighty-three patients were investigated in this study with different clinical indications. Effective doses were also calculated using software based on Monte Carlo simulation. The mean patient age (years), weight (kg), and body mass index (BMI (kg/m2)) were 49 ± 11, 82 ± 12, and 31 ± 6, respectively. The results of the study revealed that the tube voltage (kVp) and tube current-exposure time product (mAs) ranged between 100 to 140 and 50 to 840 respectively. The overall average patient dose values for the volume CT dose index [(CTDIvol), in mGy)] and dose length product (DLP) (in mGy·cm) were 34.8 ± 15 (3.7–117.0) and 383.8 ± 354 (46.0–3277.0) respectively. The average effective dose (mSv) was 15.2 ± 8 (1.2–61.8). The radiation dose values showed wide variation between different hospitals and even within the same hospital. The results indicate the need to optimize radiation dose and to establish diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) for patients undergoing coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), also to harmonize the imaging protocols to ensure reduced radiation risk.

Suspension Microesophagoscopy for Foreign Body Removal in Children.

View Video S1 Laryngoscope, 131:E2066–E2068, 2021