Weight-based protocols reduce PET/CT radiation dose

Patient-specific, weight-based imaging protocols for FDG-PET/CT can significantly reduce CT radiation dose without compromising diagnostic image quality, according to a study from American University of Beirut in Lebanon.

Researchers reduced radiation dose by 43% and achieved double-digit decreases in lifetime attributable risk for cancer by adjusting CT tube current (mAs) modulation based on factors such as a patient’s height, weight, and body mass index (BMI).

“The fact of the matter is we have an obligation under the ALARA [as low as reasonably achievable] principle to try to reduce radiation dose to as low as reasonably treatable and not to affect the outcomes for our radiologists,” said lead study author Charbel Saade, PhD. Read more.