450 Low Dose CT Protocols - The Future for Paediatric Foreign Body Aspiration?

Aim Suspected foreign body aspiration is a common attendance at the paediatric emergency department. Low dose Computer tomography (CT) protocols (0.06-2mSv) have been developed to be able to diagnose these patients more effectively. Method All paediatric low dose CT protocols for foreign body aspiration from a large tertiary level hospital were identified retrospectively over a year. Data was collected on prior imaging, result, further intervention and subsequent follow up of patients. Results Eight patients were identified. Three (37.5%) identified a foreign body on CT. All three had subsequent microlaryngoscopy and all found a foreign body present. Of the five negative scans, none re-presented or had any associated symptoms of a foreign body at follow up. Five had previous Chest X-ray, all of which were inconclusive. Conclusions Although need for ongoing research into the area, low dose CT thorax protocols for suspected foreign body aspiration is a promising and effective tool. Its use across the country will likely lead to reduced negative microlaryngoscopy rates with huge associated benefits for both the patient and the ENT department.