Streamlining pediatric musculoskeletal infection workup: the why, what, and how of rapid MRI protocols

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Emergency Medicine
• Musculoskeletal Radiology
• Diagnostic Imaging Techniques

Background:

• Acute musculoskeletal infections are common pediatric emergencies with potentially severe consequences.
• Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent long-term complications like functional impairment and sepsis.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the established gold standard for diagnosing these infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the utility of rapid MRI protocols in diagnosing acute pediatric musculoskeletal infections.
• To discuss practical considerations, challenges, and clinical applications of these rapid protocols.
• To provide guidance for radiologists interpreting rapid MRI scans in children.

Main Methods:

• Review of key considerations and practical challenges associated with rapid musculoskeletal MRI in pediatric patients.
• Inclusion of case examples to illustrate the application and interpretation of rapid MRI scans.
• Discussion of clinical applications for practicing radiologists.

Main Results:

• Rapid MRI protocols can significantly decrease scan times compared to conventional MRI.
• These protocols may reduce the need for sedation and contrast agents in pediatric patients.
• The study provides a framework for understanding and utilizing rapid MRI for acute pediatric musculoskeletal infections.

Conclusions:

• Rapid MRI protocols are a valuable tool for expediting the diagnosis of acute pediatric musculoskeletal infections.
• Incorporating these protocols into hospital systems warrants further investigation for improved patient care.
• These advanced imaging techniques can condense the diagnostic workup, leading to more efficient patient management.