Reducing fetal radiation dose in computed tomography for pregnant patients: A literature review

Abstract

To diagnose diseases during gestation period including renal stones, appendicitis, and pulmonary embolism in pregnant patients, computed tomography (CT) can be a golden standard. Due to CT examination, the fetus is prone to receiving a considerable dose which is the result of direct or scattered (external and internal scattered radiation) beams. The effects of ionization radiation on fetus include mutagenesis and carcinogenesis, therefore, it is essential to reduce fetus dose for pregnant patients who undergo CT examination during gestation period. This article aims to review approaches that are effective in reducing fetal dose in pregnant patients.