Dose Reduction
An article this week comes to us from the University of California at Irvine that may hold the secret to dramatically decreasing radiation doses for CT and PET scans. The mathematicians behind this innovative idea "have developed an algorithmic method that would slash by nearly 90% the raw data needed to create life saving medical images via MRI, CT, and PET scans." They found a way to get rid of duplicate background data and still maintain high-quality images in less time and with much less radiation to the patient. This would also reduce our exposure as technologists.
The practical implications for this abound. I think of all the chronically ill patients I see on a regular basis who have and continue to need more CT scans. By reducing their radiation dose, the chance of getting cancer down the road could be decreased significantly. From people with recurrent kidney stones to Crohn's Disease to cardiac issues, the possibilities for a healthier scan become so exciting.