Advances in Low-Dose CT Protocols and Their Impact on Diagnostic Accuracy: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Advancements in low-dose computed tomography (CT) protocols have revolutionized medical imaging by enhancing diagnostic accuracy while reducing radiation exposure, a critical concern in radiology. CT imaging, a cornerstone of diagnostic practices, is invaluable for detecting and monitoring diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular conditions, and pulmonary disorders.

Aim: To explore the advances in low-dose CT protocols, their impact on diagnostic accuracy.

Methods: This is an updated systematic analysis of papers conducted between 2020 and 2024 that specifically examine the interventions of the advances in low-dose CT protocols, their impact on diagnostic accuracy. Using the databases from Google Scholar, Web of Science, Cochrane, and PubMed, we searched the literature for pertinent studies on our subject. Various combinations of the terms “Advances, low-dose, CT protocols, impact, and diagnostic accuracy” were utilized. Additionally, a review of original studies that assessed the advances in low-dose CT protocols, their impact on diagnostic accuracy was done. Based on full-text articles, the inclusion criteria were developed.

Results: Only eight of the 55 articles that were gathered met the criteria for inclusion. The papers used included six prospective studies and two single-center prospective randomized controlled trial. Two studies included patients presenting with suspected appendicitis, another study involved patients with clinically suspected diverticulitis. Additionally, one study involved oncologic patients, while another study included patients with ground-glass opacities, and one further study enrolled confirmed COVID-19. Finally two studies patients randomized into low-dose and standard-dose CT-guided biopsy groups.

Conclusion: Low-dose CT imaging has become one of the revolutionary techniques for diagnostic imaging whereby the requirements for correct image and the concerns made to minimize the radiation dose. Beginning with acute appendicitis, to oncologic imaging, and procedural guidance emerging literature supports its safety and effectiveness. Reconstruction algorithms improve its capabilities and potential technological advancements make it suitable for application in clinics. Future studies offer the potential for forming more sophisticated low-dose CT systems with AI and machine learning to enhance the working performance of diagnosis and diseased treatment and to enlarge the application fields of low-dose CT systems in various medical specialties.