A importância dos tomógrafos móveis no ambiente hospitalar: uma revisão integrativa da literatura

Abstract

The mobile computed tomography scanner is a variant of the conventional stationary computed tomography scanner. Its ability to perform bedside examinations, travel to the patient, and reduce transport-related risks indicates high clinical applicability, as well as operational feasibility and safety. This study aimed to evaluate the importance of mobile computed tomography scanners in the hospital setting through an integrative literature review. The research was conducted using the BVS, SciELO, and PubMed databases, employing English and Portuguese descriptors combined with the Boolean operator AND. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to studies published between 2016 and 2026 that were available in full text free of charge. Initially, 405 articles were identified; 382 were excluded after title and abstract screening, and 14 were excluded after full-text review, resulting in a final sample of 9 studies. The selected articles demonstrated that mobile computed tomography scanners offer benefits regarding the reduction of intra-hospital transport risks, the acquisition of images with quality comparable to that of stationary scanners, the performance of surgical procedures, and safety concerning radiation exposure. It is concluded that mobile computed tomography scanners hold significant clinical relevance in the hospital environment; however, adequate planning and training are required for their implementation to mitigate risks associated with their use. Multicenter studies with longer follow-up periods and larger sample sizes are needed to expand and strengthen their applications.