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| Pediatric Head Trauma Imaging: 2020 ACR Appropriateness Criteria | epocrates Guideline Synopsis |
Key Points
Use PECARN criteria (p. 15) to assess risk w/ minor head trauma. Most minor injuries don’t require imaging. If imaging deemed necessary, CT head w/o contrast preferred, but consider radiation exposure risk. Skull XR not indicated; 50% of intracranial injuries in children occur in the absence of skull fx. MRI may have role in subacute/chronic injury. High-risk factors = neuro signs, mental status Δ, evidence of basilar skull fx. These guidelines exclude NAT.
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Ryan ME, Pruthi S, Desai NK, et al; Expert Panel on Pediatric Imaging. ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Head Trauma-Child. J Am Coll Radiol. 2020 May;17(5S):S125-S137.
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Epocrates Guideline Synopsis Last Update:
Oct 30, 2023
Publication Year:
2014
Source:
ACR
- American College of Radiology
Evidence Grade
| [1,2,3] | Usually not appropriate |
| [4,5,6] | May be appropriate |
| [7,8,9] | Usually appropriate |
Abbreviations
| CTA | computed tomography angiogram |
| DTI | diffusion-tensor imaging |
| fx | fracture |
| GCS | Glasgow Coma Scale |
| LOC | loss of consciousness |
| MRA | magnetic resonance angiogram |
| NAT | nonaccidental trauma |
| TBI | traumatic brain injury |
Evidence Grade
| 1,2,3 | = | Usually not appropriate |
| 4,5,6 | = | May be appropriate |
| 7,8,9 | = | Usually appropriate |