Determination of Computed Tomography Diagnostic Reference Levels in North-Central Nigeria.
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Date
2016
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The Pacific Journal of Science and Technology
Abstract
The aim of this study is to estimate dose levels
for common CT examinations in North-Central
Nigeria. Dose and scan parameters for the most
commonly performed CT examinations (head,
chest, and abdomen) were surveyed during a
four month period in 4 CT centers with multi-
slice scanning capabilities. Data on CT dose
index (CTDIvol) and dose length product (DLP)
displayed on scanner console was recorded for
a minimum of 10 averaged-sized patients for
each facility to estimate the DRLs. Data for 226
patients was collected for the study. CT
dosimetry software ImPACT CT patient
dosimetry calculator, version 1.0.4 with National
Radiation Protection Board SR250 data set was
used to validate and compare scanner
generated dose values.
Estimated regional DRLs for CTDIvol and DLP
were 60 mGy and 1024 mGy.cm for head scans,
10 mGy and 407 mGy.cm for chest scans, and
15 mGy and 757 mGy.cm for abdominal scans,
respectively. Mean effective dose values were
1.7 mSv, 5 mSv and 11.9 mSv for head, chest,
and abdominal scans, respectively. A wide
variation of mean doses was observed across
the centers; however, DRL estimates were lower
than studies from the European Commission
and higher than a United Kingdom study.
Validation result show unity (˂10% overall
variation) between scanner generated and
software calculated dose values. A potential
means by which CT practice in this part of
Nigeria can be compared is produced.
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(Keywords: computed tomography, CT, diagnostic reference levels, radiological examinations, dose)