title: Low-dose cardiovascular computed tomography: where are the limits?
abstract: Since its introduction in the 1970s, diagnostic computed tomography (CT) imaging has grown rapidly and developed into a standard diagnostic test for a wide variety of cardiovascular conditions. Although this has undoubtedly led to improved medical care, it has also been associated with a significant increase in population-based radiation exposure and the potential downstream increase in cancer is a justified concern. For cardiovascular CT, new CT scanner technologies were initially directed toward maximizing image quality rather than minimizing radiation exposure. Only more recently have technologic advances yielded dose-saving protocols for cardiovascular applications, with impressive reduction of radiation exposure. The achievable limits of population-based exposure are dependent on responsible, evidence-based use of CT for cardiovascular imaging as well as exploitation of available and emerging dose-saving strategies.
authors: Cleveland Clinic, Imaging Institute and Heart & Vascular Institute, Cleveland, OH, USA. schoenp1@ccf.org
authors: Paul
authors: P
authors: Schoenhagen
authors: Carla M
authors: CM
authors: Thompson
authors: Sandra S
authors: SS
authors: Halliburton
mesh_terms: D000367:Age Factors; D015992:Body Mass Index; D017023:Coronary Angiography / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D003324:Coronary Artery Disease / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D004307:Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009381:Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011829:Radiation Dosage; D012307:Risk Factors; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed / Q000379:methods*