Managing Patient Dose in Computed Tomography

This report points out that the doses to tissues from computed tomography, CT, can often approach or exceed the levels known with certainty to increase the probability of cancer. Radiologists are responsible for managing the dose in collaboration with imaging staff and medical physicists. CT examinations are increasing in frequency, and newer CT techniques have often increased doses when compared to 'standard' CT. Referring physicians and radiologists should make sure that the examination is indicated. Many practical possibilities currently exist to manage dose. The most important one is reduction in mA. Paediatric patients should have specific protocols with lower exposure factors (especially mAs). Automatic exposure control would be the most helpful improvement in CT equipment for dose management.ICRP Staff is the author of 'Managing Patient Dose in Computed Tomography', published 2001 under ISBN 9780080440835 and ISBN 0080440835.