Am J Med. 2012 Aug;125(8):764-72 doi: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2011.10.036. 2012 Jun 15.

Evolution of coronary computed tomography radiation dose reduction at a tertiary referral center

Ghoshhajra BB, Engel LC, Major GP, Goehler A, Techasith T, Verdini D, Do S, Liu B, Li X, Sala M, Kim MS, Blankstein R, Prakash P, Sidhu MS, Corsini E, Banerji D, Wu D, Abbara S, Truong Q, Brady TJ, Hoffmann U, Kalra M.

Abstract

PURPOSE: We aimed to assess the temporal change in radiation doses from coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) during a 6-year period. High CCTA radiation doses have been reduced by multiple technologies that, if used appropriately, can decrease exposures significantly.
METHODS: A total of 1277 examinations performed from 2005 to 2010 were included. Univariate and multivariable regression analysis of patient- and scan-related variables was performed with estimated radiation dose as the main outcome measure.
RESULTS: Median doses decreased by 74.8% (P<.001 from="" millisieverts="" range="" in="" period="" to="" msv="" factors="" associated="" with="" greatest="" dose="" reductions="" were="" all="" most="" frequently="" applied="" axial-sequential="" acquisition="" high-pitch="" helical="" reduced="" tube="" voltage="" vs="" kv="" and="" use="" of="" automatic="" exposure="" control=""> CONCLUSIONS: CCTA radiation doses were reduced 74.8% through increasing use of dose-saving measures and evolving scanner technology.

PMID: 22703931
PubMed Entry