Pediatric Musculoskeletal Imaging Guidelines

Covers modality‑specific pediatric musculoskeletal imaging with MRI (non‑contrast preferred) as the primary advanced modality, CT limited to complex fractures/dislocations, preoperative planning or specific trauma indications, and bone scan/nuclear studies reserved for defined circumstances; excludes routine advanced imaging when plain radiography suffices, acute compartment syndrome (clinical diagnosis), and benign superficial lesions (ganglion, sebaceous cyst, hematoma, stable subcutaneous lipoma). Key requirements: a documented recent (≤60 days) face‑to‑face evaluation with history/physical, appropriate labs and plain x‑rays or ultrasound prior to advanced imaging (unless guideline‑scheduled), documentation that imaging will affect management, and condition‑specific documentation (e.g., mass details, two negative x‑rays ≥10 days apart for bone scan, specialist involvement for physeal injuries), with limited/justified use of gadolinium and anesthesia.

"Patients who are <18 years old should be imaged according to the Pediatric Musculoskeletal Imaging Guidelines"