Dose Calculation in Pediatric Population Undergoing Chest X-Ray at a Tertiary Healthcare Setting in Ghaziabad

Abstract

This study comprehensively evaluates radiation dose estimation and optimization strategies in pediatric patients undergoing chest radiography within a tertiary healthcare setting in Ghaziabad, India. Pediatric radiography, though vital for diagnostic accuracy, poses significant concerns regarding radiation exposure due to the increased radiosensitivity of children. The study aimed to calculate entrance surface dose (ESD), dose-area product (DAP), and effective dose (ED), and identify technical, anatomical, and procedural factors affecting dose variations. A prospective approach was employed, including 178 pediatric patients aged 0– 10 years undergoing routine chest X-rays. Exposure parameters such as kilovoltage peak (kVp), milliampereseconds (mAs), and source-to-image distance (SID) were recorded. Data analysis revealed that radiation dose levels correlated strongly with patient age, body mass, and exposure factors, while optimization using ALARA principles significantly reduced radiation burden by up to 30%. Establishing localized diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) was recommended to improve consistency in pediatric imaging practices. The findings emphasize continuous education, equipment calibration, and adherence to standardized pediatric imaging protocols to ensure patient safety and diagnostic efficacy.