Paediatric CT reference doses based on weight and CT dosimetry phantom size: local experience using a 64-slice CT scanner.
BACKGROUND
Previously published dose reference level (DRL) values may no longer be applicable due to technological advancement. New Australian legislation recommends that local DRLs (LDRLs) are established to monitor the performance and dose of CT examinations.


OBJECTIVE
To present paediatric DRL values, in a new clinically applicable format, based on weight and referenced to both the 16-cm- and 32-cm-diameter CT dosimetry phantom sizes. To demonstrate local experience in reporting DRLs in this manner and compare these LDRL values with other published paediatric DRL data.


METHODS
A retrospective statistical analysis of dose indices was performed on 1382 CT examinations. The mean CT dose index volume (CTDI(vol)) and dose length product (DLP) are reported from display data on the Toshiba Aquilion 64 scanner (Toshiba Medical, Tochigi, Japan).


RESULTS
LDRLs were compiled based on weight and the two CT dosimetry reference phantoms for torso examinations, and for the 16-cm-diameter CT dosimetry phantom for head examinations.


CONCLUSIONS
LDRLs were compiled for the Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) Brisbane for reference by clinicians during routine clinical practice. These are compared to other published DRLs as a quality measure.
Watson
Debbie J
DJ
Medical Imaging, Royal Children Hospital, Level 2, Foundation Building, Herston Rd, Herston, Brisbane, Queensland, 4029, Australia. debbie_watson@health.qld.gov.au
Coakley
Kerry S
KS
D000293:Adolescent; D001822:Body Burden; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D011874:Radiometry / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012062:Relative Biological Effectiveness; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012307:Risk Factors; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*