CT acquisition protocols by pathology, SIRM position paper part 1: head and neck, brain and spine, chest, cardiovascular.

The current medical scenario in diagnostic imaging is characterized by an extremely frequent use of computed tomography, which becomes the main source of medical exposure. The radiation dose depends on patient's characteristics, anatomical districts, and diseases under investigation; the first two parameters cannot be modified; the correct application of specific protocols for the disease under investigation, helps improve both standardization and dose reduction. This perfectly fits with the ALARA principles (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) according to which patients must be exposed to the right dose of radiation, which, in turn, must be as low as possibly achievable. To support the radiologists in the daily clinical practice and to standardize the exposure of patients, the Italian Society of Medical and Interventional Radiology (SIRM), through his specific subcommittee, has created this position paper.