Pros and Cons – Ultrasound or Rapid MRI for Appy
Both ultrasound and rapid MRI are viable initial imaging options in young patients with suspected appendicitis. But in this study, MRI led to increased length of stay and significantly increased ED charges.
CVA, TIA, SAH – Imaging Misses Nine Percent
Even in the era of modern neuroimaging we may miss up to 9% of cerebrovascular events.
Clinical Judgment in Major Trauma
Clinical judgment alone was not very accurate in predicting serious injury compared with whole-body CT. But patients with a completely normal exam may be an exception.
Peds Appendix Ultrasound Often Non-diagnostic
Ultrasound is the right first imaging test to rule out appendicitis, but it's very important to set family expectations low and inform them that the study is often not diagnostic and that more imaging may be needed.
Don’t Stick Your NEXUS Out for Older Patients
NEXUS was not as sensitive in patients older than 65. These people need imaging.
When to Skip CT Before LP for Meningitis
Patients with suspected bacterial meningitis who have no high-risk clinical features on exam may safely undergo LP without prior CT.
Safety of MRI with a Pacemaker-ICD
A non-thoracic MRI is not absolutely contraindicated, assuming proper interrogation and programming of the device is done before the scan.
MRI Low Yield If Negative CT C-Spine
MRI rarely changes management in patients with negative CT and persistent neck pain.
Incidental Findings – Pan-Scan Unintended Consequences
One of the unintended consequences of pan-scanning is lots of incidental findings.
Kids with Post-traumatic Seizure Need Head CT
Kids with post-traumatic seizure need a head CT. Those with a normal head CT may be safely discharged and have very low risk of recurrent seizures.