Abstract

The current upsurge in computed tomography (CT) examinations has resulted in concurrent increase in medical exposure to ionizing radiation worldwide. In view of this, research efforts in various x-ray producing machines help to quantify dose incurred by patients and examine the associated cancer risks from the medical radiations, especially in children. Thus, the current work evaluates the radiation dose received by pediatric patients who underwent CT examinations at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina. A total of twenty-five (25) pediatric patients within the age range of 0-15 years were considered for the study, with male patients having the highest number (44 %) of patients than female (44 %). The results obtained were presented in terms of volumetric computed tomography dose index (CTDI-vol) and dose length product (DLP) for the Brain, Chest and abdomen. The average values of the CTDI-vol and DLP recorded were 19.31mGy and 458.22mGY.cm respectively. While the highest tube potential of 120 kV was used, the tube current was kept within the range of 40-150mA. The lead to noticeable variation in CTDI-vol and DLP values across different anatomical regions and age groups. The chest and abdomen CT examinations showed a relatively lower radiation dose compared to head (brain) examinations. Possibly due to their deeper anatomical region. By quantifying the CTDI-vol and DLP in CT examinations, this study provides useful data for relevant authorities for management of radiation to patients as well as increased awareness of radiation exposure among the public. The present work would also help relevant professionals and the government to develop new strategies for optimizing radiation dose and adopting individualized imaging protocols for pediatric patients to ensure delivery of relatively safe and effective medical care for the immediate population.

Key words: Assessment, Radiation Dose, Computed Tomography (CT), Pediatric Patients