A Review of mAs Optimization Strategies in CT Imaging:

Maximizing Quality and Minimizing Dose simultaneously

الملخص

Abstract:

Milliampere-seconds mAs, a product of tube current (mA) and the scan time (seconds), plays a fundamental role in determining the radiation dose delivered to patients. Increasing mAs generally improves signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) in images, enhancing image quality by reducing noise and improving the clarity of fine details. However, this comes at the cost of increasing the radiation dose, which must be carefully balanced to avoid unnecessary exposure. Conversely, reducing mAs might result in increasing the noise of radiology image and minimising contrast with spatial resolution, potentially compromising diagnostic accuracy. Computed tomography is a cornerstone of modern medical imaging, offering unparalleled anatomical details. Nevertheless, its widespread use necessitates cautious consideration of dose optimization.  Milliampere-seconds significantly influences image quality. This review examines the complex interplay between mAs, image quality metrics (noise, spatial resolution and contrast resolution besides radiation dose), integrating findings from recent studies and emphasizing strategies for mAs optimization. The impact of various techniques, including iterative reconstruction and automatic exposure control, will be discussed in the framework of both achieving diagnostically acceptable images and minimizing patient effective dose. An analysis of relevant studies exploring various approaches to mAs optimization and the resulting image quality tradeoffs will be presented. Emphasizing the optimization of exposure factors (mAs) allows healthcare providers to deliver superior patient care while reducing the possible risks from radiation doses