Radiological Justification Criteria of Pediatric Computed Tomography in Kenya

Substantial effort has been made by individual researchers, professionals, and experts at Kenyatta National Hospital and Gertrude's Children's Hospital to propose specific measures to enhance optimization of CT usage in pediatrics. However, specific measures regarding justification of pediatric CT examinations have not been explored. Therefore, there is a paucity of information regarding appropriate justification guidelines in the country. This study aims to identify and propose appropriate pediatric CT justification criteria applicable in Kenyan hospitals. A review of international guidelines of ICRP and IAEA on pediatric CT justification and published referral guidelines will be conducted. Findings obtained from this study will assist in the development of pediatric CT referral guidelines and enhancement of suitable practices in Kenya in order to curb unnecessary or additional radiation exposure in pediatric patient. This study has shown that the process of applying the Justification Principle is crucial and can result in substantial reduction of unnecessary radiation exposure to children in Kenya. The previously discussed 3 A's have been highlighted as important solution to facilitate and enhance justification. On-job trainings for referring physicians, radiologists and radiographers are vital in supporting the importance behind justification and dose awareness. Special trainings in patient radioprotection should be made mandatory for all persons using ionizing radiation on patients. Establishment of evidence-based national pediatric referral guidelines. Experts from major stakeholders i.e. Radiation Protection Board of Kenya, Society of Radiographers in Kenya, Kenya Association of Radiologists, East Africa Association for Radiation Protection and representative learning institutions and hospitals should collaborate to spearhead the establishment of evidence-based national pediatric referral guidelines. Referral guidelines for pediatric radiology published by the EC in 2008 can be used as a reference.