TITLE:
Optimization of Exposure Conditions for Computed Radiology Exams in Neonatal Intensive Care
AUTHORS:
Elisa Rizzi, Silvia Emanuelli, Simonetta Amerio, Diego Fagan, Francesca Mastrogiacomo, Paola Gianino, Federico Cesarani
KEYWORDS:
Neonatal Intensive Care Units; Dose Reduction; Image Quality; Computed Radiography
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Radiology,
Vol.4 No.1,
March
5,
2014
ABSTRACT: This paper
performs a review of existing literature about neonatal imaging in intensive
care; we notice that the multiplicity of approaches results in different and
sometimes conflicting solutions to optimize acquisition technique of X-ray
images. European Guidelines still refer to screen-film combinations used in
past decades, current usage of digital technology requires an additional effort
to reduce dose to infants and to optimize the sensor’s response exploiting their properties. In
this work we investigate response changes of digital medium (computed
radiography plates), due to alterations of the beam through incubators
components. All combinations in use in our Hospital were tested for evaluating
dosimetry and image quality and new exposure solutions were devised to optimize
radiology exams, taking into account solutions suggested by the equipments
makers. Dose measured was compared with dose levels suggested by European
Guidelines, evaluating
radiation-induced risk too. Image quality was evaluated in a double-blind
comparison by radiologists. An easily repeatable optimization procedure is
proposed intended to reduce delivered dose well below European guidelines. The proposed study
allowed us to instruct the technologists on the most
appropriate methodology for performing the radiology exam, by standardizing the approach to Neonatal
Intensive Care Units. We have
demonstrated also to radiologic technologists reluctant to use the X-ray tray,
as it may optimize imaging in the incubator. We were also able to reduce dose—and radiation-induced risk too—of 37% - 67% depending on the previously
used operating mode.