Dose tracking software and optimisation process: the experience in Trieste with Dose Watch

Congress:

EuroSafe Imaging 2016

Poster Number:

ESI-0041

Type:

EuroSafe Imaging

Keywords:

Action 9 - Development of criteria for safe imaging procedures, Action 8 - EuroSafe Imaging Stars network and data collection, Action 3 - Optimisation, diagnostic reference levels, image quality, Action 2 - Clinical diagnostic reference levels (DRLs), Action 10 - EuroSafe Imaging Stars, Action 5 - Performance indicators for radiation protection management

Authors:

E. Quaia, P. Bregant, A. Gennari, G. Poillucci, M. De Denaro, M. A. Cova

DOI:

10.1594/esi2016/ESI-0041

DOI-Link:

https://dx.doi.org/10.1594/esi2016/ESI-0041

Fig. 1: 85 different protocols show up in our CT investigation database, but 87% of the...

Fig. 2: Distribution of DLP values (mGy · cm) for investigations carried out with a...

Fig. 3: The comparison between the average DLP values, on the basis of serial number...

Background/Introduction

The current Italian law on radiation protection forces continuous assessment of patient’s dose and development of programs to improve diagnostic exams, especially for computed tomography (CT) and angiography. The effectiveness of these programs is monitored by biennial audit of Diagnostic Levels Reference (LDR). The 2013/59 Euratom directive, published and implemented in Italy on December 5th 2013 [1], further strengthens this approach stating that doses of medical procedures must be recorded and reported to patients. Therefore, accurate evaluation of dosimetry indicators for each diagnostic and interventional...

Description of activity and work performed

Dose Watch is a multi-modality and multivendor data collection system that can easily be connected to CT, angiographic systems, conventional diagnostic mammography and conventional flat panel X-ray. The software adapts the collection of dosimetric indicators adjusted for the characteristics of the equipment and is able to handle different types of linking modality: Radiation Dose Structured Report (RDSR), Modality Performed Procedure Step (MPPS), image DICOM header (RAW), and File Transfer Protocol (FTP) connection. DoseWatch performs automated analysis but permits also off-line analysis, generating two Excel files,...

Conclusion and Recommendations

In our preliminary experience a poor protocol standardization was recognized, except for brain CT scan. Our study showed few optimization procedures needed for CT usage, especially an easier and more definite protocol selection, but there was no critical issues. A proper definition of examination and correlation with interventional procedures is the main drawback related to angiography. Multidisciplinary Dose Team composed by a medical physicist, a radiologist and a radiographer is crucial to optimize scan protocols and to reduce the effective radiation dose of diagnostic and...

Personal/Organisational information

E. Quaia1, P. Bregant2, A. G. Gennari1, G. Poillucci1, M. De Denaro2, M. A. Cova1 1University of Trieste Trieste, Italy 1Department of Radiology, Hospital of Cattinara 2Department of Physics , University of Trieste

References

[1] European Union Council Directive,5thDecember2013,2013/59/Euratom, on "Laying down basic safety standards for protection against the dangers arising from exposure to ionising radiation"