Abstract
The present study compares three different multidetector CT (MDCT) scanners for routine brain imaging in terms of image quality and radiation doses. The volume CT dose index (CTDIvol), dose-length product (DLP), and effective dose (E) were calculated. Subjective image assessment was obtained based on a scale ranging from 1 (unacceptable) to 5 (optimum). All images scored 3.5 or over, with the 160-slice MDCT images being favoured. For the 4-, 16- and 160-slice MDCT scanners, the respective median values for CTDIvol were 57 mGy, 41 mGy, and 28 mGy; DLP values were 901 mGy.cm, 680 mGy.cm, and 551 mGy.cm; and effective doses were 2 mSv, 1.5 mSv, and 1 mSv, respectively. Compared to the 160-slice MDCT, the dose values for the 4- and 16-slice units were significantly greater. In practice, the CT modality used must be carefully selected to avoid elevated radiation doses and maintain image quality.