Dose Reference Level for Paediatric Computed Tomography Examinations at a Private Diagnostic Centre, Benin City

Pediatric computed tomography (CT) imaging presents complex challenges in radiation dose management. This study analyzed 608 pediatric CT examinations, revealing significant variations in demographic characteristics, machine parameters, and radiation exposure. Key findings indicated a predominance of male participants (60.2%), with head and brain scans comprising 89% of examinations. Contrast-enhanced studies demonstrated substantially higher radiation doses, with mean Computed Tomography Dose Index (CTDI) of 45.08 ± 21.53 mGy compared to 22.95 ± 8.45 mGy for non-contrast procedures. Machine parameters showed considerable variability, with kilovoltage ranging from 80–125 and milliamperage from 50–450. Head and brain scans exhibited the highest radiation exposure (CTDI 52.26 mGy, DLP 1182.24 mGy·cm), while chest examinations reported the lowest (CTDI 13.95 mGy, DLP 238.30 mGy·cm). The study underscores the critical need for age-specific and weight-based CT protocol optimization, careful contrast medium usage, and continuous radiation exposure monitoring in pediatric imaging. These findings contribute to the ongoing global effort to minimize radiation risks while maintaining diagnostic image quality