The German Evidence-Based Child Protection Guideline – Imaging in Suspected Child Abuse

Abstract

Aim Development of a fully evidence-based guideline including all aspects of child abuse.

Methods In a case-based procedure, 144 primary PICO questions were generated from 476 presented cases of child abuse. Literature research was performed in 5 databases (Pubmed, CINHAL, Embase, PsycInfo, Eric) and in the Cochrane Library. The literature was evaluated according to SIGN and AGREE II.

Results 137 recommendations were developed. Those related to imaging procedures are presented and discussed in this article.

Conclusion The first fully evidence-based German guideline concerning all aspects of child abuse has been established. For imaging, several relevant new approaches have been proposed.

Key Points: 

• The average radiation exposure is significantly reduced for the whole group of examined children.

• The pelvic view and lateral spine are no longer basic views of the skeletal survey but are only performed additionally in the case of a positive survey.

• Oblique views and a follow-up survey are performed in the case of a negative skeletal survey and ongoing suspicion of child abuse.

Citation Format

• Born M, Schwier F, Stoever B et al. The German Evidence-Based Child Protection Guideline – Imaging in Suspected Child Abuse. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2020; 192: 343 – 348

Key words

infants injuries - child abuse - guideline - children injuries - skeletal survey

• References

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