Radiation Dose Optimization in Computed Tomography: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Computed tomography (CT) is a critical diagnostic imaging tool that plays a vital role in the early diagnosis and proper management of diseases. However, the increasing reliance on CT scans has led to concerns regarding the associated radiation dose. CT scans are a major contributor to medical imaging dose. This review aims to address the current trends and techniques of optimizing the dose of radiation used in CT scans while maintaining the quality of images obtained. The dose of radiation is reduced by the use of hardware technologies such as automatic exposure control, tube current modulation, and beam filters. Software technologies such as iterative reconstruction and deep learning algorithms are also being used. The optimization of CT scans is carried out through techniques such as patient size adaptation and reduction of multiphase scanning. The advancement of CT scans includes technologies such as dual-energy scanning, photon counting, and intelligent workflow.