Pediatric Trauma—Not Just Little Adults-Part 2: Differences in Radiographic Workup and Management

Adult trauma centers and community hospitals often evaluate and manage pediatric trauma patients. The goal of this manuscript is to discuss current imaging guidelines while highlighting relevant differences in management between pediatric and adult trauma patients, as well as transfer considerations for definitive care at a pediatric trauma center when warranted.

Children have an inherent vulnerability to the potentially harmful effects of ionizing radiation due to their developing tissues and longer life expectancy. Studies have reported that pediatric trauma patients treated at non-pediatric facilities receive on average twice the radiation dose compared to pediatric trauma patients managed at pediatric trauma centers. Management of pediatric trauma patients also differs by facility type, specifically for operative rates for blunt solid organ injury and protocols for suspected non-accidental trauma.

Our manuscript underscores the importance of standardizing imaging and management protocols across all facilities caring for pediatric trauma patients.