Advances in Radiation Dose Reduction Techniques in CT Imaging: Current Trends and Future Perspectives

Abstract

The ability of computed tomography (CT) to produce quick, high-resolution cross-sectional images for the
assessment of a variety of medical illnesses, including as cancer, neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases,
and trauma, has made it a vital diagnostic imaging modality. Even though CT has several clinical advantages, it
significantly increases the total amount of radiation that patients are exposed to. Radiation dose reduction
techniques are becoming more popular as people become more conscious of the possible biological hazards
connected to ionizing radiation, especially the danger of radiation-induced cancers. In order to reduce radiation
exposure while preserving the quality of diagnostic images, CT dose optimization techniques are discussed in this
study along with their present trends and perspectives for the future. Optimizing CT system components, such as
detectors, collimators, and beam-shaping filters, as well as examination-specific strategy for dual-energy CT,
pediatric CT, cardiac CT, and CT perfusion imaging, are important dose reduction measures. Modern CT practice
has greatly increased dosage efficiency because of cutting-edge technology including automatic exposure control,
low tube voltage procedures, iterative reconstruction, and patient-specific scanning techniques. Additionally, new
developments such as deep learning algorithms, photon-counting detector CT, and artificial intelligence (AI)-
based image reconstruction promise enormous potential for accomplishing ultra-low-dose imaging without
impacting diagnostic accuracy. To ensure adherence to the ALARA principle, future advancements are predicted
to concentrate on intelligent automated protocols, improved spectrum imaging, standardized worldwide dose
optimization procedures, and cloud-based dose monitoring systems. Continuous collaboration among radiologists,
medical physicists, radiologic technologists, and CT manufacturers will be essential for promoting safer and more
efficient CT imaging practices. Overall, advancements in CT dose reduction techniques are expected to improve
patient safety, optimize radiation protection, and maintain high-quality diagnostic performance in clinical
imaging.