BACKGROUND: Many image-intensifier fluoroscopy systems have been replaced by flat-panel detectors in recent years. OBJECTIVE: To compare the level of contrast, image resolution and radiation dose between an image-intensifier and a newer-generation flat-panel detector system in a pediatric radiology unit. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We compared two systems — a conventional image intensifier and a newer-generation flat-panel system. We measured image quality and radiation dose using a technical phantom. Additionally, we retrospectively compared age-matched fluoroscopic pediatric voiding cystourethrography (n = 15) and upper gastrointestinal investigations (n = 25). RESULTS: In phantom studies image contrast was equal while image resolution was higher and mean radiation dose lower using the flat-panel system (P < 0.0001). In pediatric investigations, mean dose area product was significantly reduced on the flat-panel system for upper gastrointestinal investigation (45 ± 38 μGy*m2 vs. 11 ± 9 μGy*m2; P < 0.0001) and for voiding cystourethrography (18 ± 20 μGy*m2 vs. 10 ± 12 μGy*m2; P = 0.04). CONCLUSION: The newer flat-panel system performs at lower dose levels with equal to better image quality and therefore seems to be the more suitable technique for pediatric fluoroscopy in comparison to image-intensifier systems.
BACKGROUND: Many image-intensifier fluoroscopy systems have been replaced by flat-panel detectors in recent years. OBJECTIVE: To compare the level of contrast, image resolution and radiation dose between an image-intensifier and a newer-generation flat-panel detector system in a pediatric radiology unit. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We compared two systems — a conventional image intensifier and a newer-generation flat-panel system. We measured image quality and radiation dose using a technical phantom. Additionally, we retrospectively compared age-matched fluoroscopic pediatric voiding cystourethrography (n = 15) and upper gastrointestinal investigations (n = 25). RESULTS: In phantom studies image contrast was equal while image resolution was higher and mean radiation dose lower using the flat-panel system (P < 0.0001). In pediatric investigations, mean dose area product was significantly reduced on the flat-panel system for upper gastrointestinal investigation (45 ± 38 μGy*m2 vs. 11 ± 9 μGy*m2; P < 0.0001) and for voiding cystourethrography (18 ± 20 μGy*m2 vs. 10 ± 12 μGy*m2; P = 0.04). CONCLUSION: The newer flat-panel system performs at lower dose levels with equal to better image quality and therefore seems to be the more suitable technique for pediatric fluoroscopy in comparison to image-intensifier systems.
Authors: Manrita Sidhu; Marilyn J Goske; Bairbre Connolly; John Racadio; Terry T Yoshizumi; Keith J Strauss; Brian D Coley; Tara Utley Journal: AJR Am J Roentgenol Date: 2010-10 Impact factor: 3.959
Authors: Gaël P Hammer; Michael C Seidenbusch; Karl Schneider; Dieter F Regulla; Hajo Zeeb; Claudia Spix; Maria Blettner Journal: Radiat Res Date: 2009-04 Impact factor: 2.841