RESUMEN
Introduction: CTPA stands for computed tomography pulmonary angiography. CTPA is an X-ray imaging that combines X-rays and computer technology to create detailed images of the pulmonary arteries and veins in the lungs. This test diagnoses and monitors conditions like pulmonary embolism, arterial blockages, and hypertension. Coronavirus (COVID-19) has threatened world health over the last three years. The number of (CT) scans increased and played a vital role in diagnosing COVID-19 patients, including life-threatening pulmonary embolism (PE). This study aimed to assess the radiation dose resulted from CTPA for COVID-19 patients. Methods: Data were collected retrospectively from CTPA examinations on a single scanner in 84 symptomatic patients. The data collected included the dose length product (DLP), volumetric computed tomography dose index (CTDIvol), and size-specific dose estimate (SSDE). The organ dose and effective dose were estimated using VirtualDose software. Results: The study population included 84 patients, 52% male and 48% female, with an average age of 62. The average DLP, CTDIvol, and SSDE were 404.2 mGy cm, 13.5 mGy, and 11.6 mGy\, respectively. The mean effective doses (mSv) for males and females were 3.01 and 3.29, respectively. The maximum to minimum organ doses (mGy) between patients was 0.8 for the male bladder and 7.33 for the female lung. Conclusions: The increase in CT scans during the COVID-19 pandemic required close dose monitoring and optimization. The protocol used during CTPA should guarantee a minimum radiation dose with maximum patient benefits.
RESUMEN
This study aimed to share our experiences during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic obtained in diagnostic radiology facilities of 5 training research hospitals in the Asian part of Istanbul (North Hospitals). Accordingly, we reported the used examination details, allocation of radiology staff and actions, and safety procedures for patients and radiology staff. As the corporate radiology team serving in these designated pandemic hospitals, examination details and safety procedures of some diagnostic radiology facilities among 5 training research hospitals have been identified in the current study. Our guidelines and preparedness protocol aimed to reduce patient morbidity and infection-related mortality through quick and proper diagnosis to prevent the spread of COVID-19 to our employees, patients, and the general public during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results showed that teamwork is a key factor while providing medical services. In addition, continuous communication efforts and individual responsibilities of radiology staff were remarkable during the COVID-19 pandemic. The recent situation also showed that co-operation of radiology facilities with device manufacturers and applicators is quite significant especially for development of special protocols in the frame of As Low As Reasonably Achievable. The COVID-19 pandemic has tackled several challenges in radiology among radiology departments. Therefore, continuous co-operation plans and motivational actions are highly recommended not only between radiology staff but also between radiology stakeholders and service providers in the future. Technical details of recent investigation can provide useful information about the management of diagnostic radiology departments during the fight with the COVID-19 pandemic in cities with high population density such as Istanbul.