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European survey of imaging in non-accidental injury demonstrates a need for a consensus protocol
Oliver S Hulson1, Rick R van Rijn, Amaka C Offiah
1Department of Radiology Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds, UK.
Insights
Imaging practices for suspected paediatric non-accidental injury vary widely across Europe. A European consensus protocol is needed to standardize the assessment of child abuse, adopting existing UK guidelines.
Area of Science:
- Paediatric Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Child Protection
Background:
- Paediatric non-accidental injury (NAI) is a significant health concern requiring accurate imaging assessment.
- UK guidelines from RCR/RCPCH (2008) aimed to standardize imaging protocols for NAI.
- Previous efforts focused on achieving a consensus approach within the United Kingdom.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey current European practices in imaging for suspected paediatric non-accidental injury.
- To assess the adoption and variation of imaging protocols among European Society of Paediatric Radiology (ESPR) members.
- To identify the need for a European-wide consensus on NAI imaging.
Main Methods:
- A web-based survey was designed and distributed to active ESPR members.
- Responses were collected from members across 24 European countries.
- Data analysis focused on current institutional practices regarding NAI imaging.
Main Results:
- 134 responses were received, representing 37% of the ESPR membership.
- Significant variations in imaging practices were observed across European institutions.
- No consensus was found regarding radiographic and cross-sectional imaging for suspected NAI.
Conclusions:
- A European consensus protocol for imaging in suspected non-accidental injury is urgently required.
- The study supports the adoption of the joint RCR/RCPCH guidance by European institutions.
- ESPR members indicated support for implementing standardized imaging protocols.
Background:
Paediatric non-accidental injury is a considerable health problem, and imaging plays a fundamental role in its assessment. Since the introduction of joint guidelines published by the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) and Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) in 2008, there has been a concerted effort to adopt a consensus approach to imaging in this area in the United Kingdom.
Objective:
This study aims to establish current practice amongst European Society of Paediatric Radiology (ESPR) members within their institutions with regards to the use of imaging in suspected non-accidental injury.
Materials And Methods:
A web-based survey was created and circulated to all active ESPR members. The responses were collated and analysed.
Results:
We received 134 responses, accounting for 37% of the current membership across 24 European countries. These responses highlighted significant variation amongst institutions, with no consensus regarding radiographic and cross-sectional imaging in the investigation of suspected non-accidental injury.
Conclusion:
There is a need for a European consensus protocol to imaging in suspected non-accidental injury. We recommend implementing the joint RCR/RCPCH guidance, a move supported by the ESPR.
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