Pediatric Abdomen Imaging Guidelines

Covers pediatric (<18) abdominal imaging with ultrasound as the first‑line study and MRI preferred over CT to minimize radiation, reserving CT, nuclear studies, VCUG and DMSA for specific clinical indications (e.g., solid‑organ evaluation, inflammatory/infectious processes, hydronephrosis/UTI follow‑up) while excluding routine asymptomatic screening and unnecessary repeat advanced imaging. Key requirements include a face‑to‑face clinical evaluation within 60 days and documentation of active signs/symptoms and modality‑specific findings (e.g., US appendix visualization and WBC for appendicitis decisions, hydronephrosis to justify VCUG, ≥6 months post‑UTI for DMSA); certain requests (captopril renography, pediatric hypertension follow‑up, atypical VCUGs) require Medical Director review and MRI is generally performed with and without gadolinium unless contraindicated or specifically declined.

"Patients age <18 years old should be imaged according to the Pediatric Abdomen Imaging Guidelines."