The use of computed tomography for diagnosing common ailments in children is falling by the wayside, replaced by alternate types of imaging such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, according to a new study.
The paper, published in the journal Pediatrics, reports that diagnostic imaging use for seizure, ventricular shunt procedure, craniotomy, concussion, severe head trauma, appendectomy, gastroenteritis, abdominal pain, upper respiratory tract infection, and ear, nose and throat conditions is decreasing significantly.
"This study reinforces the pediatric community's commitment to think about both immediate and long term risks and benefits of our treatment," Michelle Parker, MD, lead investigator of the study and a physician in the division of hospital medicine at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, said in a statement. "Minimizing potential for harm to our patients as we work to heal them should always remain a priority."
Previously published literature reflects that among every 10,000 children exposed to CT scans, one malignancy related to ionizing radiation may occur. Alternative imaging methods such as MRI or ultrasound utilize magnetic fields and high frequency sound waves, minimizing the risk of cancer in patients who require sophisticated imaging for diagnostic purposes.
"There may still be times when a CT scan is the most appropriate imaging tool to use, however parents should be encouraged by this study which shows that physicians and hospitals are likely incorporating new evidence and adapting to provide safe medical care," Dr. Parker said.
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