Reducing Radiation Dose Achieved While Maintaining High Quality CT Colonography

A researcher has found it is possible to maintain high quality computed tomography (CT) colonography diagnostic imaging while decreasing the radiation dose. This is important as the use of CT colonography, also known as virtual colonoscopy, becomes more extensively used for colorectal cancer screenings.

Kevin J. Chang, MD, from the department of diagnostic imaging at Rhode Island Hospital (Providence, USA), discovered that decreasing the tube voltage would not adversely affect the integrity of the CT colonography. His research was published in the March 2013 issue of the journal Radiology.

“Radiation dose is a concern for many in healthcare--from the clinicians and patients to the government agencies that regulate the industry,” Dr. Chang said. “The theoretical risks of radiation exposure as a cancer causing agent must be weighed realistically against the substantial benefits of colon cancer screening.”

Colorectal cancer, According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of decreasing the radiography voltage on dose and finally on three-dimensional (3D) image quality in patients undergoing CT colonography, and how these alterations are affected by patient size. After examining the CT colonography findings in 63 patients, the results revealed a statistically significant decrease in radiation dose while only marginally decreasing 3D image quality in patients of all sizes.

Dr. Chang noted that more research is required, but that he and other experts anticipate even more decreases in CT radiation dose in the coming years. “Colorectal cancer screenings are an important part of preventative medicine,” Dr. Chang said, “and by lowering the radiation dose, we can lower patients’ concerns and their exposure, while maintaining the diagnostic quality of the exam and providing early detection and treatment.”

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