Reducing computed tomography radiation dose in diagnosing pulmonary embolism

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Computed tomography angiography plays a major role in the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism. Radiation dose associated with it is a major concern; therefore it is important to optimize protocols and techniques to ensure minimum radiation dose. METHODS: The study compares two protocols i. Conventional Timing Bolus CT protocol and Delayed Timing Bolus protocol used to assist suspected pulmonary embolism patients. RESULTS: A significant reduction in the average effective dose (39%) was noticed when using the delayed timing bolus protocol. CONCLUSION: Delayed timing bolus protocol has a good impact on radiation dose without affecting the value of the computed tomography angiography study.