Acetabular and pelvic fractures in the pediatric patient: value of two- and three-dimensional imaging.

Pediatric trauma is a significant source of morbidity and mortality in pediatric patients. Prompt and accurate assessment of injuries is necessary for the best outcome. Computed tomography (CT) has become a well-accepted, rapid, relatively noninvasive way to assess the trauma patient. In certain cases of pelvic trauma, two- and three-dimensional CT (2D/3D CT) adds detail not otherwise obtainable or appreciated. Although the benefits must be balanced against the slight increase in delivered radiation dose, we believe that 2D/3D CT is often an important part of patient management.