Overuse of ionizing radiation imaging by skull X-ray scans for minor pediatric head trauma

Abstract

Introduction and aim. The assessment of light head trauma in pediatric patients (GCS 14-15) often involves the use of skull X-rays for forensic reasons. This study aims to evaluate the necessity of radiographic imaging and reducing the overuse of X-rays, and developing Slovak guidelines for the appropriate use of X-rays and computed tomography (CT) in pediatric head trauma cases. Material and methods. This retrospective descriptive study analyzed records from children with head trauma seen at trauma clinics over a period of one year. The study focused on the number of radiographic images (CT and X-rays) performed on pedi atric patients and assessed the appropriateness of these imaging techniques. Results. Out of 1168 pediatric patients with head trauma, 831 (71%) had simple head injuries, 295 (25.26%) had wounds in the head area, 17 (1.45%) had fractures, 23 (1.97%) had concussions, and 2 (0.17%) had intracranial hematomas. A total of 1097 (93.9%) children with head trauma underwent imaging: 1032 had X-rays and 65 had CT scans. The study found that only 3.42% of patients actually needed radiation. Conclusion. The majority of pediatric head trauma cases were minor and not associated with brain injury, highlighting the overuse of radiographic imaging in these cases.