Imaging Sci Dent.  2024 Jun;54(2):159-169. 10.5624/isd.20230251.

Optimizing cone-beam computed tomography exposure for an effective radiation dose and image quality balance

• Santos AA
• Silva BSdF
• Correia FFN
• Mezaiko E
• Roriz CFdS
• Silva MAG
• Freitas DQ
• Yamamoto-Silva FP

• KMID: 2557118
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5624/isd.20230251

Abstract

Purpose
The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of different cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) acquisition protocols on reducing the effective radiation dose while maintaining image quality.
Materials and Methods
The effective dose emitted by a CBCT device was calculated using thermoluminescent dosimeters placed in a Rando Alderson phantom. Image quality was assessed by 3 experienced evaluators. The relation-ship between image quality and confidence was evaluated using the Fisher exact test, and the agreement among raters was assessed using the kappa test. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to investigate whether the technical parameters could predict the effective dose. P-values<0.05 were considered to indicate statistical significance.
Results
The optimized protocol (3 mA, 99 kVp, and 450 projection images) demonstrated good image quality and a lower effective dose for radiation-sensitive organs. Image quality and confidence had consistent values for all structures (P<0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis resulted in a statistically significant model. The milliamperage (b = 0.504; t = 3.406; P = 0.027), kilovoltage peak (b = 0.589; t = 3.979; P = 0.016) and number of projection images (b = 0.557; t = 3.762; P = 0.020) were predictors of the effective dose.
Conclusion
Optimized CBCT acquisition protocols can significantly reduce the effective radiation dose while maintaining acceptable image quality by adjusting the milliamperage and projection images.

Keyword

Cone-Beam Computed Tomography; Radiation Exposure; Radiation Dosimeters