RESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: Computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) has become a commonly used imaging modality in patients with suspected anginal symptoms but also in asymptomatic populations. This practice has raised concerns due to potential high radiation exposure in terms of adequate benefit to risk profile. DESIGN: Demographics and CTCA scan details were collected from a consecutive series of 586 patients referred to a single community radiology practice for a CTCA. RESULTS: Of the 586 patients, 271 (46.2%) were women. Mean age was 58.3 standard deviation (SD) 12.2, range 15-90 years, body mass index (BMI) 28.6 SD 5.9 kg/m(2), and heart rate 60 SD 10 beats per minute. Mean total radiation was 4.79 SD 3.45 mSv (range 0.64-31.34). The mean radiation exposure in the lowest quartile of BMI and heart rate were 3.01 SD 1.84 mSv and 3.95 SD 2.72 mSv, compared to the highest 7.32 SD 3.51 mSv and 6.20 SD 4.38 mSv (p for trend <0.0001 in both). CONCLUSION: The radiation exposure in this consecutive series of patients is low in general but patient selection for CTCA imaging appears to be paramount. Patients with a high BMI and especially with high heart rate receive a higher dose of radiation.
Asunto(s)
Índice de Masa Corporal , Angiografía por Tomografía Computarizada/métodos , Enfermedad de la Arteria Coronaria , Frecuencia Cardíaca , Exposición a la Radiación/normas , Adulto , Anciano , Australia , Enfermedad de la Arteria Coronaria/diagnóstico , Enfermedad de la Arteria Coronaria/diagnóstico por imagen , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Selección de Paciente , Dosis de Radiación , Salud Radiológica/normas , Estadística como AsuntoRESUMEN
Rapid advances in communications and computing technology have opened up new opportunities for clinical teleradiology. The quality of teleradiology reporting, when carried out properly, is on par with onsite reporting, and offers the potential for increased accuracy and improved patient outcomes. Local and international industry organisations and professional bodies are creating standards, policies and protocols for every aspect of teleradiology in response to concerns about the use of this technology. The key factor for the long-term success of teleradiology has been identified as a commitment to ensuring duty of care to patients (encompassing high-quality service and patient safety) is the first priority. Evidence indicates that increased use of teleradiology will be a step forward if managed well, but requires a commitment to excellence, patience and perseverance.