Optimisation of paediatric chest radiography.

The purpose of this work is to present the algorithm for the optimisation of paediatric chest radiography aimed to reduce patient doses at keeping adequate image quality. Optimal tube voltage, tube current and exposure time, use of automatic or manual exposure control and use of antiscatter grid were recommended for different age groups and depending on the patient size. The optimised protocols and radiography technique resulted in decrease in Entrance surface air kerma and effective dose values in a factor of between 1.5 and over 5 for different age groups. Image quality was assessed to be of sufficient diagnostic quality.