학술논문

CT-like MR-derived Images for the Assessment of Craniosynostosis and other Pathologies of the Pediatric Skull
ORIGINAL ARTICLE
Document Type
Clinical report
Source
Clinical Neuroradiology. March 2023, Vol. 33 Issue 1, p57, 8 p.
Subject
Diagnosis
Research
Imaging technology
Child health -- Research
Medical research
Head injuries -- Research -- Diagnosis
Pediatrics -- Research
Imaging systems -- Research
Magnetic resonance imaging -- Research
CAT scans -- Research
Medicine, Experimental
Children -- Health aspects
CT imaging -- Research
Language
English
ISSN
1869-1439
Abstract
Introduction Craniosynostosis is the premature closure of one or more of the cranial sutures [1]. Although relatively rare with an incidence of approximately 2.6-6.4 in 10,000 children [2, 3], craniosynostosis [...]
Purpose To evaluate the diagnostic value of CT-like images based on a 3D T1- weighted spoiled gradient echo-based sequence (T1SGRE) for the visualization of the pediatric skull and the identification of pathologies, such as craniosynostosis or fractures. Methods In this prospective study, 20 patients with suspected craniosynostosis (mean age 1.26[+ or -] 1.38 years, 10 females) underwent MR imaging including the T1SGRE sequence and 2 more patients were included who presented with skull fractures (0.5 and 6.3 years, both male). Additionally, the skull of all patients was assessed using radiography or CT in combination with ultrasound. Two radiologists, blinded to the clinical information, evaluated the CT-like images. The results were compared to the diagnosis derived from the other imaging modalities and intraoperative findings. Intrarater and interrater agreement was calculated using Cohen's [kappa]. Results Of the 22 patients 8 had a metopic, 4 a coronal and 2 a sagittal craniosynostosis and 2 patients showed a complex combination of craniosynostoses. The agreement between the diagnosis based on the T1SGRE and the final diagnosis was substantial (Cohen's [kappa] = 0.92, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.77-1.00 for radiologist 1 and [kappa]=0.76, CI 0.51-1.00 for radiologist 2). Of the patients with fractures, one presented with a ping pong fracture and one with a fracture of the temporal bone. Both radiologists could identify the fractures using the T1SGRE. Conclusion The visualization of the pediatric skull and the assessment of sutures using a CT-like T1SGRE MR-sequence is feasible and comparable to other imaging modalities, and thus may help to reduce radiation exposure in pediatric patients. The technique may also be a promising imaging tool for other pathologies, such as fractures. Keywords Magnetic resonance imaging * Skull * Cranial bone imaging * Children * Radiation exposure