What is the principal method of reducing radiation exposure to patients in PET/CT?

The principal method of reducing radiation exposure to patients in PET/CT is by reducing beam current and exposure time. This approach directly influences the amount of radiation delivered to the patient during imaging procedures. By optimizing these parameters, the overall radiation dose can be minimized without compromising the quality of the images obtained.

When beam current is reduced, less radiation is generated, which decreases the patient's exposure. Additionally, shortening the exposure time further limits the duration in which the patient is subjected to radiation. This combination ensures that the radiation dose remains as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA principle), while still allowing for the necessary diagnostic information to be gathered.

Through this method, it is possible to balance the need for high-quality imaging against the imperative to keep radiation exposure within safe limits, thereby enhancing patient safety during PET/CT examinations.