Researchers have discovered a new CT scan method that reduces radiation exposure has been developed.

According to the study:

• The CT scan technique splits a full X-ray beam into smaller beamlets and still produce similar image quality at a reduced radiation dose. The method could be adapted in all medical scanners and minimize the amount of radiation patients are exposed to through the traditional CT scanner.

• Researchers broke an X-ray beam into beamlets and moved the imaged object in a cycloidal motion to ensure it was irradiated.

• Compared to the conventional CT scanning method, the researchers found that this new technique delivered the same image quality at a vastly reduced radiation dose.

A computerized tomography scan is a type of imaging technique in the form of an X-ray. It creates accurate cross-sectional views of the body’s anatomy and is used by doctors to diagnose cancer and other diseases and also guide treatment.

Various studies found that CT scans can increase a patient’s cancer risk because of the high radiation dose, which can damage the DNA. Body cells may repair the damage, but sometimes the repairs are not perfect and may later lead to DNA mutations.

The new technique can be adjusted and used in medical scanners to help lower exposure to radiation. A lot of CT scans are done each year, meaning that many people are exposed to radiation. But now, with the new cycloidal method and use of beamlets, radiologists can achieve high image resolution results without exposing patients to high doses of radiation.

The new method can be used to lower radiation dose. When deployed at the usual radiation dose, it increases the image resolution. This means doctors can adjust the sharpness of the images using different sizes of apertures, allowing for more flexibility.