Variation of Pediatric Doses Undergoing Digital and Computed Radiography Examination in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Various researchers who carried out national and international surveys have reported wide variations in patient dose arising from specific X-ray examinations. Thus, assessment of radiation dose is an essential part in the optimization process. The aim of this study was to compare the entrance surface doses delivered to pediatric patients undergoing digital and computed radiography X-ray examination.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 389 pediatric X-ray projections less than 15 years of age on eight X-ray machines in Addis Ababa in February 2009 E.C. The tube output of the X-ray machines in air was measured using RaySafe XI dosimeters. Then, entrance surface dose was estimated for common x-ray examinations like chest, skull, extremities and pelvis using established relation between X-ray tube output and radiographic parameters. These data were analyzed statistically using computer (Excel and SPSS method).
CONCLUSION: The wider dose variation between computed and digital radiography shows that there is a pressing need to minimize the detriment caused by unnecessary computed radiography.
KEYWORDS: pediatric radiation dose, computed radiography, digital radiography