What does CTDIw account for in its calculations?

CTDIw, or the weighted computed tomography dose index, is a crucial metric used to quantify the radiation dose delivered by a CT scan. It specifically accounts for the differences in periphery and central doses within the scanned volume. When performing a CT scan, the radiation dose is not uniformly distributed; instead, it varies between the center of the scan and its periphery. CTDIw takes these variations into consideration by averaging the doses in the central region and at the edges of the irradiated area, providing a more comprehensive understanding of radiation exposure during CT imaging.

This measurement helps in standardizing doses across different types of CT examinations, ensuring that patients receive the lowest necessary dose while still achieving high-quality imaging results. By focusing on the distribution of dose within the scanned volume, CTDIw effectively addresses one of the key concerns in radiological practice: optimizing patient safety while maintaining diagnostic efficacy.