Optimizing Dose in Computed Tomographic Guided Procedures

In the recent past, computed tomography (CT) use has grown by approximately 10% per year, with 62 million examinations performed in the USA in 2006. While these studies make up only 15% of the total number of radiologic examinations, they contribute approximately half of the public exposure due to medical radiation. CT-guided procedures comprise a small, but important minority of the total number of CT scans performed each year, as a significant dose can be delivered in this setting. This article reviews techniques to optimize patient exposure during CT-guided interventions.