We propose determining the entrance surface air kerma (ESAK) from the kerma area product (PKA) in digital radiology. ESAK values were derived from the X-ray tube outputs and patient exposure factors across five X-ray departments. Using linear regression between ESAK and PKA values, the slope and intercept coefficients were determined for each X-ray equipment and procedure. The method was examined using the data collected from patients who underwent chest PA/LAT, abdomen, pelvic AP, and lumbar spine AP/LAT X-ray examinations. The results showed a highly significant correlation between ESAK and PKA values and correlation coefficients, ranging from 0.77 to 1 with P-value < 0.001 in most studies. This method can be employed by incorporating dose data and related parameters into the X-ray device's software, similar to other dose-displayed information. The online determination of ESAK from PKA could help with quality assurance and patient dose management in digital radiology.
Keywords: Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM); Digital radiology; Dose display; Patient dose; Radiation measurements.
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