Opportunities to Reduce CT Radiation Exposure, Experience Over 5 Years at the NIH Clinical Center

Abstract

Our current study was undertaken in order to compare CT exposures during various dose-reduction initiatives at the National Institutes of Health Clinical center, to show trends in exposure reduction over a 5-y period, and to provide benchmarks that other facilities may use. Using an in-house extraction tool (Radiation Exposure Extraction Engine), we derived CT exposure data from Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) headers over 5 y. We present parameters used and compare most common exams between 2010 and 2015. During a period of exposure-reduction initiatives, data of 79 396 exams from nine CT scanners on 87 scan protocols were analyzed. Adult chest exposures were reduced 53% and chest, abdomen and pelvis exams were reduced 43% (p < 0.001). Only extremity exams did not show significantly reduced exposure. Collecting data over several years allowed us to confirm and compare several initiatives. We demonstrated significant exposure reductions during continued reduction efforts on common exams. Our results may provide benchmarks for similar centers.

Computed Tomography in Limb Salvage and Deformity Correction—3D Assessment, Indications, Radiation Exposure, and Safety Considerations

“…According to Kovacs et al, exposure during chest, abdominal, and pelvic examinations could be reduced by up to 50% by adapting protocols over a period of 5 years (2010-2015)-values that cannot be achieved for extremity scans [37]. However, recent technological advances and refined protocols have been developed to reduce radiation doses.…”

Cumulative Radiation Exposures from CT Screening and Surveillance Strategies for von Hippel-Lindau–associated Solid Pancreatic Tumors

“…Comparison of cumulative radiation exposure on the basis of diameter-based versus VHL genotype and tumor diameter-based PNET surveillance algorithm were performed by using an of Health Clinical Center (L.R.F., with 30 years of experience, and W.K.). Compared with the threephase CT protocol, the dual-energy VNC protocol halves the radiation exposure by eliminating the precontrast phase and decreasing the tube current with the use of iterative reconstruction (18,19 ). Equivalent organ doses and effective dose for each single scan were estimated by radiation scientists (C. Lee, with 14 years of experience, and N.J.) on the basis of volume CT dose index values extracted from the Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine headers.…”