Logo image
Back
Reducing radiation exposure in pediatric CT imaging: strategies and alternatives in emergency medicine—a narrative review
Journal article   Open access

Reducing radiation exposure in pediatric CT imaging: strategies and alternatives in emergency medicine—a narrative review

Mayar M. Aziz, Chibuike Onyejesi, Reshma Pyala, Omar Alattar, Al Anoud Abdul, Kokiladevi Alagarswamy, Isma Butt, Luis L. Gamboa and Mohammed Alsabri
Journal of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, v 9, 12
30 Jun 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21037/jeccm-24-102
url
https://doi.org/10.21037/jeccm-24-102View
Published, Version of Record (VoR)Open Access (License Unspecified),  Open

Abstract

Pediatric computed tomography scans (pediatric CT scans) radiation exposure dose reduction
Background and Objective: Computed tomography (CT) scans are essential in pediatric emergency medicine for their rapid and precise diagnostic capabilities. However, the use of ionizing radiation in CT scans raises serious concerns, particularly for pediatric patients who are more vulnerable to radiation-induced harm. The associated radiation risks, such as potential malignancies, necessitate a balanced approach between diagnostic benefits and potential long-term health consequences. This study addresses the challenges of reducing CT scan radiation exposure in pediatric emergency care while ensuring optimal patient care with no comptonization of the diagnostic outcome. It also explores alternative imaging modalities and strategies examining their role as first-line options in specific clinical scenarios. Methods: Databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar were used to identify relevant studies, guidelines, and reviews. We used relevant keywords and terms for the literature search. The literature was thoroughly searched for publications pertaining to reducing radiation exposure from CT scans in pediatric emergency department (PED) settings understanding the risks and investigating practical dose-reduction techniques. Key Content and Findings: Pediatric organs and tissue have a higher cell proliferation rate and are more radiosensitive compared to adults thus putting them at a heightened risk to the radiation associated risks. Reducing exposure to ionizing radiation can be achieved by three main arms: adjusting key scan parameters systems with adjustable settings tailored to the patient, following guidelines like As Low as Reasonably Achievable (ALARA), PECARN rules for imaging in pediatric trauma, and the Image Gently Campaign aim to minimize these risks and Using Alternative imaging modalities when applicable. Future directions of technical innovations, interdepartmental cooperation and setting benchmarks for CT scans and guidelines protocols for emergency departments are the cornerstones for optimal pediatric care while reducing radiation risks. Conclusions: Results are in support of the need for careful consideration of the benefits and the risks of ionizing radiation exposure in PED in each case thus reaching a balanced approach without overusing them or undermining their diagnostic role taking the full benefits and reducing the unnecessary risks. Future direction should focus on technological advancement and updating the guidelines implementing evidence-based practices in pediatric imaging.

Metrics

8 Record Views

Details

Logo image