A survey of non-accidental injury imaging in England, Scotland and Wales.

AIM

To identify the potential national variation in non-accidental injury (NAI) imaging in England, Scotland and Wales.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A postal survey was sent to 323 hospitals with both paediatric and radiology departments. These were identified by a search through the Medical Directory.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirteen of 323 postal questionnaires were returned within the study period (35%). Sixteen were excluded from the study because either no NAI imaging was performed at that institution or an incorrect address had been used. The total number of completed questionnaires was 97 (30%). Extensive variation was seen in all aspects of NAI imaging including imaging techniques used, total case numbers, follow-up imaging and those who report the NAI imaging.

CONCLUSIONS

There is currently no national protocol that incorporates all aspects of NAI imaging in England, Scotland and Wales. Extensive variation in practice has been shown by this survey. Further standardization of NAI imaging practice is required. The draft BSPR skeletal survey guidelines and routine neurological imaging is recommended.