Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 11, 2026

Whole-body PET/MRI of Pediatric Patients: The Details That Matter
Published on: December 19, 2017
Current utilization and procedural practices in pediatric whole-body MRI
Gary R Schooler1, Joseph T Davis2, Heike E Daldrup-Link3
1Department of Radiology, Duke University Medical Center, 1905 McGovern-Davison Children's Health Center, Box 3808 - DUMC, Durham, NC, 27710, USA. gary.schooler@duke.edu.
Pediatric whole-body MRI is a growing imaging tool, but practices vary in its use and protocols. This survey reveals common indications and sequences, highlighting a need for standardization in pediatric radiology.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Pediatric Imaging
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Background:
- Whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an increasingly important imaging tool for pediatric patients.
- Significant variability exists in how whole-body MRI is utilized and performed across different radiology practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand technical and utilization practices of pediatric whole-body MRI in North America.
- To explore common indications, referral patterns, and technical protocols for pediatric whole-body MRI.
Main Methods:
- A 19-question survey was distributed to the Society for Pediatric Radiology membership in 2016.
- The survey collected data on practice type, modality preferences, MRI field strength, sequence selection, and billing.
Main Results:
- 62 responses from 471 physicians indicated whole-body MRI is preferred for neurofibromatosis type 1, CRMO, cancer predisposition syndromes, vasculopathies, and disseminated infections.
- Commonly used sequences include coronal STIR, coronal T1, and axial DWI, with no preference for 1.5-T or 3-T systems.
- Variability was observed in billing practices, with most using chest/abdomen/pelvis or unlisted MRI codes.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric radiologists utilize whole-body MRI for diverse indications in pediatric imaging.
- Survey results highlight variability in exam utilization and technical performance, suggesting areas for standardization.
Related Concept Videos
Electrical Current
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Excretion
Characteristics of Practical Op Amps
The ratio of differential gain to the common-mode gain is defined as the common-mode rejection ratio (CMRR). This ratio quantifies the ability of operational amplifiers (op-amps) to reject common-mode...
Theoretical Foundations of Nursing Practice
Theories provide a perspective to assess patients' conditions and organize data and methods. They also assist in analyzing and interpreting information. They represent a...
Equivalent Circuits for Practical Transformers
In a practical transformer, each winding exhibits resistance and leakage reactance. The...
Pharmacokinetics in Pediatric Patients: Drug Distribution

