Thoracic CT technique in children

Computed tomography (CT) is a powerful tool for imaging the different structures of the child's thorax. Pediatric thoracic CT technique should provide images that allow confident diagnosis at the lowest risk to the patient. New data has increased our understanding of the risk of low-dose radiation. Understanding the technical aspects of CT scanning allows the CT scanner to be optimized for the best combination of image quality and radiation dose. Developments in CT scanning, including multidetector scanners and vascular imaging techniques, are changing the way CT scanning is used. The many imaging options available to the thoracic radiologist require a complex set of decisions when establishing CT protocols and when selecting techniques for different clinical indications. This article presents information on radiation risk and provides an overview of the broad range of factors used when performing pediatric thoracic CT.