Mark Robert Green MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Phuong-Anh Thi Duong MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Maria Christina Shiau MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Starting July 2014, dose information will be included on radiology reports as a Joint Commission requirement. This information may be foreign to most clinicians. The purpose of this exhibit is to review: 1) Basic radiation biology and radiation dose measurement on CT examination 2) Interpretation of the included dose information 3) Limitations of dose measurement and risk assessment, and 4) Strategies to effectively communicate risk to patients    

1. Define dose and address dose normalization factors. Define equivalent and effective dose. Review deterministic vs stochastic effects. 2. Review interpretation of reported dose by defining DLP and CTDI. Provide examples of converting reported dose to effective dose. 3. Limitations of dose measurement and radiation risk estimate (risk estimates at low dose; extrapolation/Linear no threshold model, latency period to cancer induction, CT phantoms, patient size). 4. Strategies to communicate patient risk: Risk communication pitfalls (Gigerenzer, et al.), Risk from radiation exposure over natural incidence (Cancer), use of visual aids, address numeracy deficiencies, risk based on age, risk compared to background radiation vs everyday risks, risk of exam vs. risk of missed diagnosis). Provide resources for imaging alternatives (ACR appropriateness criteria)

http://abstract.rsna.org/uploads/2014/14004573/14004573_m243.pdf

Green, M, Duong, P, Shiau, M, Communicating Radiation Dose and Risk to Patients Undergoing CT Examination: A Clinician's Guide.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14004573.html