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. MATERIALS AND 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. CONCLUSION: Incidental findings in minor head trauma are common. Clinicians should be prepared to address these findings if clinically indicated.
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. MATERIALS AND 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. CONCLUSION: Incidental findings in minor head trauma are common. Clinicians should be prepared to address these findings if clinically indicated.