Optimizing radiation safety: establishment of diagnostic reference levels for CT examinations in Northern Jordan

Introduction This study aims to establish a diagnostic reference level (DRL) for computed tomography (CT) examinations in northern Jordan, focusing on optimizing radiation doses in compliance with international standards. The goal is to minimize radiation exposure from routine CT scans of the brain, chest, and abdomen, safeguarding patient safety while enhancing diagnostic efficacy. Method Data of dose descriptor, including CT Dose Index (CTDIvol) and Dose Length Product (DLP), were collected from multiple hospitals across northern Jordan. The study involved a sample of 2200 patients, categorized into brain, chest, and abdomen CT groups. The 75th percentile of the median values of CTDIvol and DLP were calculated to determine DRL. Results DRL was set at 76 mGy for brain CT, 16 mGy for chest CT, and 24 mGy for abdomen CT. The DLP DRL was 1388.5 mGy·cm for the brain, 662 mGy·cm for the chest, and 1010 mGy·cm for the abdomen scans. The median CTDIvol values for brain, chest, and abdomen CT examinations were recorded as 73.6, 12.9, and 19.5 mGy, respectively. The corresponding DLP values for brain, chest, and abdomen CT were 1320.2 mGy·cm, 531 mGy cm, and 863 mGy cm. Conclusion The study establishes DRL for common CT examinations in northern Jordan for the first time. The DRL indicate that current radiation doses are exceeded national and international benchmarks, highlighting the need for optimization strategies. However, the increasing utilization of CT imaging necessitates ongoing monitoring and adjustments to mitigate long-term radiation risks.