Congress:
EuroSafe Imaging 2020
Keywords:
Multicentre study, Observational, Retrospective, Quality assurance, Radiation safety, Diagnostic procedure, Mammography, CT, Conventional radiography, Radioprotection / Radiation dose, Action 2 - Clinical diagnostic reference levels (DRLs)
Authors:
T. Vanaudenhove, K. Van Slambrouck, A. fremout
DOI:
10.26044/esi2020/ESI-07827
Background/introduction
For 10 years, participating in national surveys is mandatory for all medical centres in Belgium with regular radiological activity. Dose data are collected annually for CT procedures and every three years for conventional radiography, mammography and interventional procedures by means of dedicated forms. Considered procedures are taken from an official list of common examinations. For each device, data must be collected for procedures performed for minimum 5 patients per month on average [1].
National DRLs are computed as the 75th percentile (P75) of the distribution of median dose metrics (CTDIvol and DLP for CT procedures, DAP for conventional and interventional radiology, AGD for mammography) calculated for each device. DRLs for children are established per age and weight category where possible.
The objective is to show results of surveys and observations performed by the Belgian authority with the aim of establishing national DRLs for adults and children. The results of the studies offer a tool for optimisation to be used on a local level.