An Environmental Scan of the National and Provincial Diagnostic Reference Levels in Canada for Common Adult Computed Tomography Scans

Several regulatory bodies have agreed that low-dose radiation used in medical imaging is a weak carcinogen that follows a linear, non-threshold model of cancer risk. While avoiding radiation is the best course of action to mitigate risk, computed tomography (CT) scans are often critical for diagnosis. In addition to the as low as reasonably achievable principle, a more concrete method of dose reduction for common CT imaging exams is the use of a diagnostic reference level (DRL). This paper examines Canada's national DRL values from the recent CT survey and compares it to published provincial DRLs as well as the DRLs in the United Kingdom and the United States of America for the 3 most common CT exams: head, chest, and abdomen/pelvis. Canada compares well on the international scale, but it should consider using more electronic dose monitoring solutions to create a culture of dose optimization.     

Wireless Connectivity for People with Hearing Loss: Between the Listener and the Talker: Connectivity Options

Hearing aids are often not sufficient for optimal communication between a listener and a talker. Therefore, numerous options for wireless connectivity between the listener and the talker designed to improve communication have become widely available. From the original wireless option of the induction loop system, most of the current solutions involve a digital signal with high quality and limited interference. Many are proprietary and only operate with a given manufacturer''s devices, while others are more universal as long as the digital receiver can be connected to the listener''s personal device. In addition, connectivity options to assist those with hearing loss are now readily available on the smartphone which can be used as a remote microphone. Therefore, it is paramount that the available wireless protocols be considered relative to the listener''s experience with wireless technology so that solutions may be offered that are efficient, economical, and effective.     

Imaging of Chronic Thromboembolic Disease

Lung - Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity. The most common long-term complication of acute PE is chronic thromboembolic disease, a heterogenous entity...