Assessment of radiation dose in adult chest and abdomen ct procedures using size-specific dose estimates in selected ct centers in rivers and delta states

Abstract

This study evaluates radiation dose levels in adult chest and abdomen CT procedures using Size-Specific Dose Estimates (SSDE) across selected CT centers in Rivers and Delta States. The data was analyzed using de-identified data from console records to ensure confidentiality. The study found that female patients had a more significant percentage of CT chest scans (54.30%) and abdominal scans (59.86%) than males. The patient group showed a wide age range (18 to 93 years). Adjustments in tube voltage and current intensity were indicated for patient size and imaging requirements. For chest scans, radiation exposure averaged 50.04 mGy (±11.34) and 523.2 mGy.cm (±112.33), while for abdomen scans, the average was 58.12 mGy (±19.58) and 725.81 mGy.cm (±114.07). ANOVA results revealed a significant association between age and dose-area product (DAP TRANS) for both chest and abdomen scans. Consistent scan settings remained constant across age categories, implying consistent scan settings irrespective of patient age. These findings emphasize the impact of patient demographics on CT scan parameters and radiation exposure, highlighting the need for individualized dose optimization strategies.