Evaluation of referential dosages obtained by Cone-Beam Computed Tomography examinations acquired with different voxel sizes

Marianna Guanaes Gomes TORRES, Paulo Sérgio Flores CAMPOS, Nilson Pena Neto SEGUNDO, Marlos RIBEIRO, Marcus NAVARRO, Iêda CRUSOÉ-REBELLO

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the dose–area product (DAP) and the entrance skin dose (ESD), using protocols with different voxel sizes, obtained with i-CAT Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), to determine the best parameters based on radioprotection principles. Methods: A pencil-type ionization chamber was used to measure the ESD and a PTW device was used to measure the DAP. Four protocols were tested: (1) 40s, 0.2 mm voxel and 46.72 mAs; (2) 40s, 0.25 mm voxel and 46.72 mAs; (3) 20s, 0.3 mm voxel and 23.87 mAs; (4) 20s, 0.4 mm voxel and 23.87 mAs. The kilovoltage remained constant (120 kVp). Results: A significant statistical difference (p<0.001) was found among the four protocols for both methods of radiation dosage evaluation (DAP and ESD). For DAP evaluation, protocols 2 and 3 presented a statistically significant difference, and it was not possible to detect which of the protocols for ESD evaluation promoted this result. Conclusions: DAP and ESD are evaluation methods for radiation dose for Cone-Beam Computed Tomography, and more studies are necessary to explain such result. The voxel size alone does not affect the radiation dose in CBCT (i-CAT) examinations. The radiation dose for CBCT (i-CAT) examinations is directly related to the exposure time and milliamperes.

Keywords: Cone-Beam Computed Tomography. Radiation. Voxel.

Friday, December 27, 2024 14:38