ABSTRACT 747

Abstract

Background and aims: Cranial computed tomography (CT) should be performed in life-threatening events as it has rapid and reliable results. Aims: In this study, clinical indications for CT examination were investigated and whether or not CT has a contribution to the management of treatment in Pediatric Emergency Department (PED). Methods: A review of medical reports of patients who underwent cranial CT between January 2005 and 2013 was performed. Medical histories, demographical features and causes of providing CT were evaluated. All patients had no trauma or only had minor head trauma. Results: Cranial CT was performed in 837 patients on admission. The mean age of the patients was 72 ± 58 months, and 59% of them were male. The most common cause of requirement tomography was afebrile seizure with 49%. Alteration of consciousness (19%), histories of minor head trauma (11%), fever with or without vomiting (8%), headache (7%) and ataxia and acute focal weakness of extremities (6%) were the other common causes. 700 (83%) CT had normal results. Brain edema was seen in 69, parenchymal hemorrhage in 17, fracture of scull in 14, empyema in eight, herniation in three and intracranial mass in two of the patients. Neurosurgery consultation was performed in 30 (3.6%) patients according to CT results. Conclusions: Despite increased accessibility and usage of CT in children, the correct indications of CT use is not clear yet. Cranial CT findings that requires immediate neurosurgical intervention is quite low. The benefit-risk ratio in all patients who admitted to PED should be determined with a good clinical assessment.