STRATEGIES FOR RADIATION DOSE OPTIMIZATION IN CARDIAC CT ANGIOGRAPHY TO MINIMIZE PATIENT EXPOSURE

Abstract

Background: Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) has become an essential non-invasive diagnostic tool for evaluating coronary artery disease (CAD). Despite its diagnostic advantages, concerns remain regarding radiation exposure associated with CCTA. Optimizing radiation dose while maintaining diagnostic image quality is therefore a critical objective in modern radiology practice.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate awareness, implementation, and barriers related to radiation dose optimization strategies in CCTA among radiology professionals.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 80 radiology professionals, including radiologic technologists and technicians. Data were collected through structured questionnaires focusing on demographic characteristics, familiarity with dose-reduction techniques, implementation of radiation safety protocols, and perceived barriers to dose optimization. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results: Most participants were radiologic technologists (60.5%), and the majority were male (71.2%). Approximately 86.4% of respondents identified reducing patient dose while maintaining image quality as the primary goal of radiation optimization. Tube current modulation (75.5%) and prospective ECG-gating (24.5%) were the most recognized dose-reduction techniques. Most participants (56.1%) estimated the effective radiation dose for CCTA to be between 1–5 mSv. A large proportion reported routine use of dose-reduction strategies (86.4%) and automatic exposure control (90.9%). The most frequently reported barriers to optimization included lack of training (43.9%), lack of awareness (22%), institutional policies (18.3%), and time constraints (15.8%).

Conclusion: The study demonstrates a high level of awareness and implementation of radiation dose optimization strategies among radiology professionals. However, gaps remain in training and institutional support. Strengthening education programs, establishing standardized protocols, and implementing regular dose monitoring can further improve radiation safety in CCTA practice.