Diagnostic reference levels for paediatric computed tomography
SA Journal of Radiology
| Field | Value | |
| Title | Diagnostic reference levels for paediatric computed tomography | |
| Creator | Vawda, Zakariya Pitcher, Richard Akudugu, John Groenewald, Willem | |
| Description | Objectives: To establish local diagnostic reference levels (LDRLs) for emergency paediatric head computed tomography (CT) scans performed at a South African (SA) tertiary-level hospital and to compare these with published data.Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of volume-based CT dose index (CTDIvol) and dose length product (DLP) data from uncontrasted paediatric head CT scans performed in the Trauma and Emergency Unit of a tertiary-level SA hospital from January to June 2013. A random sample of 30 patients in each of 3 age groups (0–2, 2–5 and 5–10 years) was used. LDRL values were compared with several national DRLs from Europe and Australia. Results: Mean CTDIvol and DLP values were: 30 mGy and 488 mGy.cm for the 0–2 years age group; 31 mGy and 508 mGy.cm for the 2–5 years group, and 32 mGy and 563 mGy.cm for the 5–10 years group, respectively. The mean DLP for 0–2 year-olds was the only parameter outside the range of corresponding published reference data. Stratification into narrower age groupings showed an increase in DLP values with age. Conclusion: An institutional review of the head CT scanning technique for emergency studies performed on children less than 2 years of age is recommended. The current study highlights the role of LDRLs in establishing institutional dosimetry baselines, in refining local imaging practice, and in enhancing patient safety. Standard age stratification for DRL and LDRL reporting is recommended. | |
| Publisher | AOSIS | |
| Date | 2015-11-30 | |
| Identifier | 10.4102/sajr.v19i2.846 | |
| Source | South African Journal of Radiology; Vol 19, No 2 (2015); 4 pages 2078-6778 1027-202X | |
| Language | eng | |
| Relation |
The following web links (URLs) may trigger a file download or direct you to an alternative webpage to gain access to a publication file format of the published article:
https://sajr.org.za/index.php/sajr/article/view/846/1104
https://sajr.org.za/index.php/sajr/article/view/846/1106
https://sajr.org.za/index.php/sajr/article/view/846/1105
https://sajr.org.za/index.php/sajr/article/view/846/1069
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