Utilization and Anatomical Distribution of CT and MRI in a Pediatric Emergency Department
Objective: To assess the anatomic distribution of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans in pediatric emergency department patients and determine their frequency of use. We also aimed to assess whether there were any differences in imaging practices based on time of day or type of imaging performed.
Methods: This retrospective study was conducted in a single tertiary pediatric emergency department, staffed by pediatric emergency medicine specialists, pediatricians, pediatric residents, and general practitioners, with approximately 400,000 visits annually. MRI and CT scans performed on pediatric emergency department patients were categorized into three groups: neuroradiology, body and musculoskeletal.
Results: A total of 12,764 radiologic imaging procedures were performed in the pediatric emergency department, including 6,656 CT scans and 6,108 MRI scans. MRI was used in 1.62% of visits, and CT in 1.77%. The mean age of patients undergoing CT was 8.72 years (95% confidence interval [CI], 8.59-8.85), and the mean age of patients undergoing MRI was 9.06 years (95% CI, 8.93-9.20). CT was performed significantly more frequently in younger patients P<0.001). Across all age groups, MRI was performed more frequently in the neuroradiology category, while CT was more common in body imaging. The number of scans performed was lowest between 04:00 and 08:00. The proportion of imaging requests among total patient admissions was highest in February and August, at 4.59% and 4.52%, respectively.
Conclusion: MRI and CT are used for diagnostic purposes in pediatric emergency departments. CT use remains common in young children. This may raise concerns about the potential long-term adverse effects of radiation. Identifying imaging trends within centers can help clinicians adjust their work schedules and ultimately improve patient outcomes.
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Article Information
- Article Type Research Article
- Submitted March 18, 2026
- Accepted July 13, 2026
- Published July 19, 2026
- Issue 2026: Online First
- Section Research Article
- Categories
The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
