Assessing Upper Limb Angiography Effective Dose With 128-Slice Multi-detector Computed Tomography

Introduction: Computed Tomography (CT) provides high-resolution imaging, particularly useful in evaluating bone-related musculoskeletal disorders. The effective dose is an ideal measurement to compare the radiation dose levels of various imaging modalities. The primary aim of this study was to assess the effective dose of radiation delivered during upper limb angiography using 128-slice CT and evaluate its safety and effectiveness. Methods: In this retrospective study, the CT scans were performed using 128 slices of GE Health Care (GE Revolution). For each scan, the machine automatically generated a radiation dose report. This report included the dose-length product (DLP), and the data were stored in PACS, from which the effective dose for the study was calculated using standard conversion coefficients. Results: Total of 18 patients aged 20–75 years, with average mean 47.0± 14.91 years, who underwent upper limb angiography were included. The average DLP was 16.66 mGy-cm ± 9.48 mGy-cm and average Mean of CTDI vol was 33.32 mGy ±18.96 mGy and, average Mean of ED is 0.25 mSv ± 0.14 mSv. This ED was lower than European DRL. All scans produced diagnostically acceptable images. Conclusion: The Radiation effective dose in upper limb angiography was found to be low, while providing diagnostically acceptable images for clinical assessment. Patient outcomes and image quality can be improved by optimizing imaging protocols, utilizing advanced technologies, and enhancing clinician awareness of radiation safety.