Dose Reduction and Dose Management in Computed Tomography – State of the Art

Abstract

Background For years, the number of performed CT examinations has been rising. At the same time, computed tomography became more dose efficient. The aim of this article is to give an overview about the state of the art in dose reduction in CT and to highlight currently available tools in dose management.

Method By performing a literature research on Pubmed regarding dose reduction in CT, relevant articles were identified and analyzed.

Results and Conclusion Technical innovations with individual adaptation of tube current and voltage as well as iterative image reconstruction enable a considerable dose reduction with preserved image quality. At the same time, dedicated software tools are able to handle huge amounts of data and allow to optimize existing examination protocols.

Key points 

• CT examinations are increasingly performed and contribute considerably to non-natural radiation exposure.

• A correct indication is crucial for each CT examination.

• The examination protocol has to be tailored to the medical question and patient.

• Multiple technical innovations enable considerable dose reduction with constant image quality.

• Dose management with dedicated software tools gains importance.

Citation Format

• Zinsser D, Marcus R, Othman AE et al. Dose reduction and dose management in computed tomography – State of the art. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2018; 190: 531 – 541

Key words

CT - diagnostic radiology - dose reduction - dose management

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