Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 3, 2026

Making MR Imaging Child's Play - Pediatric Neuroimaging Protocol, Guidelines and Procedure
Published on: July 30, 2009
Wrist MR imaging in children: Effect on clinical diagnosis and management
Kevin W Taylor1, Michael M Moore1, James Brian1
1Department of Radiology, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033, United States.
Objectives:
Evaluate the impact of wrist MRI in children on clinical diagnosis and management.
Materials And Methods:
Four year retrospective analysis including demographics, MRI diagnoses, and effect on diagnoses and management were determined.
Results:
101 patients were included. Wrist MRI altered management in 86% (95% CI: 77-92%) and diagnosis in 46% (36-56%) of patients. MRI changed both diagnosis and management in 41% (31-51%), changed management only in 46% (35-56%), changed diagnosis only in 5% (2-12%), and had no change in diagnosis or management in 9% (95% CI: 4-17%).
Conclusion:
Wrist MRI in children changes clinical diagnosis and management in a substantial proportion of cases.
Insights
Pediatric wrist MRI significantly impacts clinical decisions. This imaging modality altered diagnosis or management in most children, aiding in better patient care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Radiology
- Musculoskeletal Imaging
Background:
- Accurate diagnosis and management of pediatric wrist injuries are crucial.
- The role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in evaluating pediatric wrist conditions requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of wrist MRI on clinical diagnosis and management in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 101 pediatric patients undergoing wrist MRI over a four-year period.
- Data collected included patient demographics, MRI findings, and the subsequent effect on diagnosis and clinical management.
Main Results:
- Wrist MRI altered management in 86% of cases and diagnosis in 46% of pediatric patients.
- A significant proportion (41%) experienced changes in both diagnosis and management, while 46% had management changes only.
Conclusions:
- Wrist MRI plays a substantial role in modifying clinical diagnosis and management strategies for children with wrist conditions.
- The findings support the utility of wrist MRI in pediatric orthopedic and rheumatologic care.
Related Concept Videos
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System IV: CMRI
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System III: X-Ray
Definition and Purpose
An X-ray, or radiograph, is a non-invasive method that uses ionizing radiation to take images of internal structures. It is mainly used in cardiac imaging to examine the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels, aiming to identify abnormalities in the heart's size, shape, and position, such as heart failure, congenital defects, and vascular...
Radiological Investigation II: MRI and Ventilation Perfusion Scan
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ventilation Perfusion Scans are two radiological investigations that offer detailed diagnostic images of the body, particularly lung structures.
MRI
MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues. This technology provides a more detailed diagnostic image than CT scans, enabling it to characterize pulmonary nodules, stage bronchogenic carcinoma, and evaluate inflammatory activity in...
