Follow-up barium study after a negative water-soluble contrast examination for suspected esophageal leak: is it necessary?

The purpose of this study was to determine the value of follow-up barium esophogram in diagnosing esophageal injury or leak if the initial water-soluble contrast examination of the esophagus is normal. An institutional review board (IRB)-approved retrospective review of all pediatric patients less than 18 years old referred to the radiology department for evaluation of esophageal injury or leak was performed for a 9-year period from 2005 to 2014. The majority of patients had unexplained pneumomediastinum, chest trauma (gunshot or puncture wound), or foreign body ingestion as the reason for the referral.

MR imaging of pediatric trauma.

Although plain radiography remains the most important and cost-effective imaging for screening and characterizing osseous injuries, it has been well recognized that pediatric fractures can occur without radiographic abnormalities. The superb capability of MR imaging in demonstrating marrow edema, cartilage defects, and soft tissue injuries makes it an essential adjunct in the further evaluation of trauma to the growing skeleton. The key MR imaging findings of growth plate injuries, stress fractures, avulsion injuries, osteochondritis dissecans, transient patellar dislocation, and soft tissue injuries are described in this article.

Comparison of computed tomography and chest radiography in the detection of rib fractures in abused infants.

Purpose: Chest radiographs (CXR) are the standard method for evaluating rib fractures in abused infants. Computed tomography (CT) is a sensitive method to detect rib fractures. The purpose of this study was to compare CT and CXR in the evaluation of rib fractures in abused infants.