Tips of contrast-enhanced CT for pediatric patients

Abstract

Computed tomography (CT) is a valuable tool because of its excellent diagnostic accuracy, wide availability, and short acquisition time. However, because children are more radiosensitive than adults, the indications for pediatric CT should be considered carefully. Non-essential radiation exposure can be avoided by prior discussion between clinicians and diagnostic radiologists to evaluate justification of the scan and the need for contrast agent, pre-contrast imaging, and dynamic scanning.

Contrast agent is essential for evaluating internal organs, vascular systems, and the extent of tumors because it increases the conspicuity of targeted tissues and improves the diagnostic value. However, it is difficult to determine appropriate infusion rates and scan delay times due to the wide variations in body size and circulatory dynamics in the pediatric population. Because pediatric contrast-enhanced CT protocols are not fully established, it is important to share experiences among institutions. In this article, we suggest tips for performing pediatric contrast-enhanced CT appropriately based on the experience of our institution.