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Gastrointestinal Tract Perforation in the Newborn and Child: Imaging Assessment
Gary R Schooler1, Joseph T Davis1, Edward Y Lee2
1Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, 1905 Children׳s Health Center, Durham, NC.
Insights
Pediatric gastrointestinal tract perforation has many causes, from congenital issues to foreign bodies. Imaging is key for diagnosing and monitoring these perforations in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Radiology
- Gastrointestinal Imaging
- Abdominal Emergencies
Background:
- Gastrointestinal tract perforation in children presents diverse etiologies.
- Accurate diagnosis and follow-up imaging are critical for pediatric patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common causes of pediatric gastrointestinal perforation.
- To describe imaging findings for various etiologies.
- To outline imaging strategies for diagnosis and management.
Main Methods:
- Review of pediatric gastrointestinal perforation cases.
- Analysis of imaging findings across different etiologies.
- Discussion of diagnostic and follow-up imaging protocols.
Main Results:
- Common etiologies include congenital anomalies and foreign body ingestion.
- Characteristic imaging manifestations are presented for each etiology.
- Effective imaging assessment strategies are detailed.
Conclusions:
- Radiologists require a systematic approach to diagnose pediatric gastrointestinal perforation.
- Understanding common etiologies and their imaging features aids timely diagnosis.
- Appropriate imaging assessment is crucial for optimal patient outcomes.
Abstract:
Gastrointestinal tract perforation can arise from various underlying etiologies ranging from congenital causes to ingested foreign bodies in the pediatric patient population. Imaging assessment in patients with suspected gastrointestinal tract perforation plays a central role in making the diagnosis and follow-up evaluation. This article reviews the more common etiologies of gastrointestinal tract perforation in pediatric patients, their imaging manifestations, and strategies for imaging assessment to assist the radiologist in arriving at a timely and accurate diagnosis.
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