Radiology
-
To estimate the radiation-related lung cancer risks associated with annual low-dose computed tomographic (CT) lung screening in adult smokers and former smokers, and to establish a baseline risk that the potential benefits of such screening should exceed. ⋯ Given the estimated upper limit of a 5.5% increase in lung cancer risk attributable to annual CT-related radiation exposure, a mortality benefit of considerably more than 5% may be necessary to outweigh the potential radiation risks.
-
Comparative Study
Diagnostic CT scans: assessment of patient, physician, and radiologist awareness of radiation dose and possible risks.
To determine the awareness level concerning radiation dose and possible risks associated with computed tomographic (CT) scans among patients, emergency department (ED) physicians, and radiologists. ⋯ Patients are not given information about the risks, benefits, and radiation dose for a CT scan. Patients, ED physicians, and radiologists alike are unable to provide accurate estimates of CT doses regardless of their experience level.
-
To assess helical computed tomography (CT) with contrast material administered intravenously, orally, and rectally (triple contrast helical CT)) in the prospective evaluation of stable patients with abdominal gunshot wounds in whom there is no clinical indication for immediate exploratory laparotomy. ⋯ In stable patients with gunshot wounds to the abdomen in whom there is no indication for immediate surgery, triple-contrast helical CT can help reduce the number of cases of unnecessary or nontherapeutic laparotomy (negative laparotomy) and can help identify patients with injuries that may be safely treated without surgery.