Fatores que influenciam na repetição de exames de tomografia computadorizada: uma revisão integrativa da literatura

Abstract

Introduction: The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) points out that, among several reasons, the repetition of exams contributes to the increase of the radiation dose in the patient. Repeating a tomography exam indicates that there was a problem or unforeseen event related to the exam, which is not common in the imaging sector, since it affects an overdose in the patient, in the reception of clinical information and in the correct diagnosis of the exam. Objectives: To identify the factors that result in the repetition of exams in Computed Tomography, which increase dose in the patient. Methodology: The methodological approach of this work proposes an integrative review of the literature, with a qualitative approach and descriptive character, through a literature review, through electronic search in virtual databases: PubMed, Google academic, and Web of Science, in the period from 2018 to 2023. Results and discussion: In this study, of the integrative literature review type, 8 articles in portuguese of research carried out were analyzed and selected, in which the data were analyzed and the most cited factors for the repetition of CT scans were exposed. Among these factors are: image artifacts, inadequate justification, lack of periodic training of professionals, non-cooperation of the patient, contrast phases, insufficient clinical information, inadequacy of protocols and the non-application of accurate methods for image interpretation. Conclusion: the decision to repeat a computed tomography scan is made by the radiologist and should be made carefully, taking into account the exposure to ionizing radiation associated with CT and the potential risks for the patient. It is concluded that among the factors that contribute to the repetition of computed tomography exams, the low quality of the image and the inadequate justification are the ones that most interfere in terms of diagnosis and patient safety.