Move to standardise CT scans for children with brain injuriesRSS Feed

A new report in Canada is calling for standardisation in the way computed tomography (CT) scans are used in children with minor head injuries.

The study, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, suggests that a new method could help to stabilise or even reduce the number of CAT scans being used in children, News-Medical.net reported.

CT scans are important tools in the diagnosis of serious brain injuries but the report's authors point out that they expose children to the potentially harmful effects of ionising radiation and add to healthcare costs.

According to Dr Osmond, of the Department of Pediatrics at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, and coauthors: "There is growing concern that early exposure to ionising radiation may result in a significant rise in lifetime fatal cancer risk."

The researchers propose the use of a so-called CATCH rule (Canadian Assessment of Tomography for Childhood Injury) to guide doctors treating children with minor head injuries.

Under the new guidelines, doctors would make seven simple findings from the child's history and physical exam before progressing with a CT scan.

CT scans are more detailed than standard X-rays, providing views of organs, blood vessels and bones inside the body.

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