Electron beam CT scan is a valuable and safe imaging tool for the pediatric surgical patient

Electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) is a relatively new technology that has been used primarily to detect coronary artery calcification in adult patients. EBCT has several potential advantages over traditional CT: (1) fast acquisition times resulting in less need for sedation, (2) decreased radiation exposure, and (3) robust software enabling real-time interactive 3-dimensional visualization of anatomic relationships. In this series of case reports, the authors describe their initial experience with the use of EBCT in pediatric noncardiac imaging.

Children with a variety of thoracic and abdominal disease processes were evaluated by EBCT.

All patients underwent EBCT scanning without the need for sedation, and 3-dimensional images of the data sets were rendered in minutes after their acquisition. The diagnostic images provided equivalent spatial resolution to the multislice CT scanner but without motion artifacts and lower radiation exposure.

EBCT is a safe, effective, and user- and patient-friendly alternative to traditional CT in the care of pediatric surgical diseases. The diagnostic yield of EBCT will continue to improve with new technologic advances and clinical experience.