Joseph Steven Konrad MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Ana P. Lourenco MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Elizabeth Lazarus MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To review CT utilization in pregnant women from 2006-2013 and to evaluate for an interval decrease as concerns over radiation exposure from medical imaging have increased.

This IRB approved, HIPAA compliant retrospective review of the radiology database at a large academic women’s hospital was conducted to identify all CT examinations performed in pregnant females from January 1, 2006 - December 31, 2013. Patient age, gestational age at the time of CT, indications for the study, final impression, radiation dose and additional imaging exams performed within one week for the same complaint were recorded. 

There were a total of 440 CT examinations performed in pregnant patients during the study period. There were 69,508 deliveries during the study period. 24 patients had 2 CT exams during the same pregnancy. Average patient age was 27 (range 15-40 yrs). Average gestational age at time of CT was 27 weeks (range 5 to 40 weeks). The majority of CTs were performed in the third trimester, 56% (246/440). The most common CT examination performed over the 8 year span was a CT Pulmonary Embolus 44% (194/440) followed by a CT of the abdomen and pelvis 33% (144/440). The most common indication for a CT exam was shortness of breath 33% (144/440). Positive, acute findings were identified in 21% (91/440) of exams. There were a total of 301 additional imaging studies performed on this patient cohort, with chest X-ray being the most common 35% (106/301). CT utilization per 1000 deliveries in 2006/2007 was 6.1, increasing 33% to 8.1 in 2008/2009. Utilization decreased 50% from peak utilization in 2008/2009 to 4.1 in 2012/2013. The average overall CT acquired radiation dose for all patients was 27.63 mGy.  

CT utilization in pregnant patients has declined 50% over the past 4 years.

CT utilization in pregnancy has declined over the past 4 years as awareness of radiation related to medical imaging has increased among both patients and providers.

Konrad, J, Lourenco, A, Lazarus, E, The Ups and Downs of CT Utilization in Pregnancy.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14009706.html