Abstract
Purpose: Considering the improvements in CT over the past decade, this study aimed to determine whether CT can diagnose HVI in pediatric trauma patients with seatbelt signs (SBS). Methods: We retrospectively identified pediatric patients with SBS who had abdominopelvic CT performed on initial evaluation over 5 1/2 years. Abnormal CT was defined by identification of any intra-abdominal abnormality possibly related to trauma. Results: One hundred twenty patients met inclusion criteria. CT was abnormal in 38/120 (32%) patients: 34 scans had evidence of HVI and 6 showed solid organ injury (SOI). Of the 34 with suspicion for HVI, 15 (44%) had small amounts of isolated pelvic free fluid as the only abnormal CT finding; none required intervention. Ultimately, 16/120 (13%) patients suffered HVI and underwent celiotomy. Three patients initially had a normal CT but required celiotomy for clinical deterioration within 20 h of presentation. False negative CT rate was 3.6%. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of CT to diagnose significant HVI in the presence of SBS were 81%, 80%, and 80%, respectively. Conclusions: Despite improvements in CT, pediatric patients with SBS may have HVI not evident on initial CT confirming the need to observation for delayed manifestation of HVI. Level of Evidence: Level II Study of a Diagnostic Test. © 2017 Elsevier Inc.