Pediatric Emergency MRI: What You Need to Know to Make It Through the Night

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThe purpose of this review is to introduce the non-pediatric radiologist to the many common conditions that can be diagnosed via pediatric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), particularly in the emergency setting.Recent FindingsThe vast majority of radiologic examinations in children occurs in non-pediatric facilities, and is interpreted by non-pediatric radiologists.  Therefore, it is essential that the non-pediatric radiologist is aware of the current and potential imaging trends occurring in the pediatric setting, largely focused on increased MRI utilization. With advances in MR technology, many MRIs can be performed relatively quickly, eliminating the need for sedation. Because of this, and its lack of ionizing radiation, pediatric MRI has been increasingly relied upon in the emergency setting over the past decade. It is ever more prudent that every radiologist familiarize him or herself with the varying MR studies that can be performed after hours, a nd the MR appearance of common diagnoses. Our review focuses on the more common conditions diagnosed via MR imaging including appendicitis, other causes of right lower quadrant pain, shunted hydrocephalus, limited sequence brain MR in the acute setting, musculoskeletal infections and spine emergenci es.SummaryWith the continued advent of faster MRI scanners and avoidance of ionizing radiation, the usage of MRI in the pediatric setting will only increase in the future. We believe that it is important ...
Source: Current Radiology Reports - Category: Radiology Source Type: research