Low Dose Computer Tomography Examinations in Acute Ischemic Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack in Zambia

Authors

  • Nchimunya Gwaba Lusaka APEX Medical University/ University of Pretoria
  • Kathryn Malherbe School of Health Care Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
  • Julius Thambura School of Health Care Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
  • Ruth Phiri Radiography Department, Maina Soko Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia
  • Jane Shawa Radiography Department, Levy Mwnawasa University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54450/saradio.2025.63.1.953

Keywords:

Stroke, CT dose index, CT imaging parameters

Abstract

Background. Imaging is crucial in stroke cases because it improves interpretation and makes it easier to distinguish between ischemic alterations and cerebral hemorrhage. Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and transient ischemic attack (TIA) are medical emergencies that require immediate clinical and radiological evaluation to be treated. In AIS and TIA, computed tomography (CT) imaging can help patients by providing precise anatomic information for treatment planning and a faster and more accurate diagnosis. But, there is a risk to one’s health from the ionising radiation that is received during a CT scan. To measure the radiation output of various CT scanners, the CT dose index (CTDI) is a standardised measure of the radiation dose output of a CT scanner. This study aimed to reduce the CTDI, without compromising  image quality, in AIS and TIA imaging, across the various imaging sites in Zambia.

Methods. A quantitative, experimental research design was  used The first stage involved a quantitative retrospective review of patients’ files to ascertain the current CTDI values used in imaging patients with AIS and TIA. The  prospective quantitative phase involved the development of new imaging parameters that helped reduce the CTDI. Data were analysed using Stata version 17. The study was conducted at five tertiary hospitals across Zambia. The sample was purposefully selected (n=100). 

Conclusion. This study managed to maintain excellent image quality at lower CTDI, which is within international standards.

Author Biographies

Kathryn Malherbe, School of Health Care Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa

Lecturer, School of Health Care Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa

Julius Thambura, School of Health Care Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa

Lecturer, School of Health Care Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa

Ruth Phiri, Radiography Department, Maina Soko Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia

Radiologist, Radiography Department, Maina Soko Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia

Jane Shawa, Radiography Department, Levy Mwnawasa University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia

Radiologist, Radiography Department, Levy Mwnawasa University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia

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Published

2025-05-30

Issue

Vol. 63 No. 1 (2025)

Section

Original Articles

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