Release date: 2007-07-27
Advancements in CT technology have significantly reduced radiation exposure, offering safer imaging for patients. Medical physicist Cynthia H. McCollough has been at the forefront of promoting these innovations, helping radiologists better manage radiation doses. At the 2007 National Radiation Protection and Measurement Committee meeting, she highlighted the growing public concern over medical radiation, noting that media reports often exaggerate or misrepresent the risks associated with CT scans. This misinformation can lead to unnecessary fear, such as linking radiation to fictional scenarios like Spider-Man or causing widespread panic about its dangers.
A recent U.S. article sparked alarm by claiming that up to 500 out of 6 million children who undergo abdominal or head CT scans before age 15 could be harmed. Such reports have left many patients feeling anxious and uncertain about their medical procedures.
McCollough argues that the focus should not be on whether CT is safe, but rather on whether it effectively addresses clinical needs. She introduced a new CT scanner capable of displaying radiation doses in real time, allowing radiologists to adjust the amount based on specific imaging requirements. Each scan records the radiation level, enabling doctors to track and control exposure across different organs. These data also help estimate the effective dose, minimizing potential biological risks.
Dosimetry plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and appropriate radiation use. However, one challenge remains: maintaining image quality while reducing radiation. The new CT scanner features advanced technology that filters electron beam energy and reduces noise. Doctors can easily lower the dose and fine-tune image quality with just a button press or dial adjustment. For instance, automatic lighting settings adapt to the patient’s size, while the tube current (MAS) modulator adjusts radiation levels across different imaging planes. By maintaining a consistent noise level, the scanner can reduce radiation by approximately 50%. In cardiac CT, the dose can be cut by 40% by adjusting the tube current during the heart’s cycle.
"We can reduce the dose by an average of 20% for patients of all sizes, even for those who are severely obese," McCollough explained. As awareness grows, more patients will seek professional guidance before undergoing imaging procedures. While the concept of effective dose may still seem complex, understanding it involves a balanced evaluation of risk and benefit. It empowers patients to make informed decisions after weighing the potential dangers," she added.
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