Journal of Pediatric Neuroradiology 2016; 05(01): 013-019
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1584243
Review Article
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart • New York

Computed Tomography in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury: Who Needs It and How Is It Scored?

Laura B. Eisenmenger
1   Department of Radiology, Utah Center for Advanced Imaging Research, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
,
Yoshimi Anzai
1   Department of Radiology, Utah Center for Advanced Imaging Research, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
› Institutsangaben
Weitere Informationen

Publikationsverlauf

29. Februar 2016

29. Februar 2016

Publikationsdatum:
25. Mai 2016 (online)

Abstract

Head trauma is one of the most common reasons for children to visit the emergency room in the United States. Computed tomography (CT) utilization for pediatric head trauma continues to increase despite public concern regarding ionizing radiation exposure. More than 90% of the imaging studies in children with minor head trauma are negative for traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Judicious use of head CT is important to reduce unnecessary ionizing radiation in the vulnerable pediatric population. With the goal of reducing unnecessary CT for pediatric TBI patients, an important question is not “who needs head CT” but “who can safety avoid head CT.” When abnormal CT findings are present for moderate or severe TBI patients, accurate and reproducible scoring systems are also necessary to make CT reports actionable and meaningful for physicians in the trauma team. This article outlines the current evidence-based practices for pediatric head CT use, highlighting relevant clinical decision-making tools, as well as reviews the current CT-based trauma scoring systems.

 
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