Incidental findings on computed tomography scans in children with mild head trauma.
BACKGROUND
Computed tomography (CT) scans are frequently used in managing traumatic brain injuries in children.


OBJECTIVE
To assess incidental findings in children with head trauma undergoing CT scan and to describe any associated clinical ramifications.


METHODS
Retrospective review of 524 children treated in 2 emergency departments for closed head injury who received a CT scan.


RESULTS
Overall, 137 (26.2%) patients had an incidental finding on CT scan. The most common incidental finding was sinus opacification with an air fluid level (115/137, 83.9%). Thirty-five interventions were reported in children with incidental findings. Children 2 years old or younger were more likely to receive a prescription for antibiotics (relative risk [RR] = 2.66, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08-6.51) and be referred to a specialist (RR = 10.26, 95% CI = 3.56-29.56) than older children.


CONCLUSIONS
Incidental findings in minor head trauma are common. Clinicians should be prepared to address these findings if clinically indicated.
Children's Hospitals and Clinics of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55404, USA. henry.ortega@childrensmn.org
Henry W
HW
Ortega
Heidi
H
Vander Velden
Samuel
S
Reid
D000293:Adolescent; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D005260:Female; D016489:Head Injuries, Closed / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D033162:Incidental Findings; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed