To analyze trends in CT chest examinations and patient radiation exposure before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the importance of these trends for future diagnostic practices.
Key Findings:
A total of 241,217 CT examinations were conducted, with 62,981 being chest CTs (26.1%).
CT chest examinations increased significantly during the pandemic, with a 50% rise from 2019 to 2020, highlighting the critical role of CT in managing COVID-19.
Post-pandemic, there was a slight reduction in chest examinations, averaging 935.9 in 2023, indicating a potential shift in diagnostic practices.
Average patient radiation exposure remained stable, indicating effective dose management practices that should be maintained.
Interpretation:
The study highlights a sustained demand for CT chest examinations due to COVID-19, with effective management of radiation exposure achieved through modern technologies and optimized protocols.
Limitations:
Limited data on long-term trends beyond the initial pandemic period may affect the comprehensiveness of the findings.
Variability in device usage and protocols may affect generalizability, and potential biases in data collection should be acknowledged.
Conclusion:
The demand for CT chest examinations has increased significantly during and after the pandemic, with stable radiation exposure levels indicating improved practices that warrant ongoing monitoring.
