Microsievert Wide-Volume Versus Spiral Computed Tomography Using an Automatic Exposure Control System in the Diagnosis of Foreign Body Aspiration in Children

BackgroundForeign body aspiration (FBA) in childhood is a life-threatening condition that necessitates prompt management to prevent devastating complications. Different imaging methods are used in the diagnosis of FBA.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic value and dose of microsievert wide-volume computed tomography (mu Sv-WV-CT) with multidetector computed tomography using an automatic exposure control system (MDCT-AEC) in children with FBA.Material and MethodsIn this single-center cross-sectional study, 102 cases diagnosed with FBA between September 2013 and September 2021 were retrospectively evaluated. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the diagnostic modality used: group A, mu Sv-WV-CT (2016-2021) and group B, MDCT-AEC (2013-2021). The diagnostic performance and radiation dose of the 2 groups were statistically compared.ResultsThe diagnostic performance (sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy) of the 2 groups was similar. The mean effective radiation dose of group A was 34.89 +/- 0.01 mu Sv, which was significantly lower than that of group B (179.75 +/- 114.88 mu Sv) (P < 0.001).ConclusionIn children with suspected FBA, mu Sv-WV-CT at a lower radiation dose had similar diagnostic performance to MDCT-AEC.

Automated summary

This study compared the diagnostic value and radiation dose of microsievert wide-volume computed tomography (mu Sv-WV-CT) with multidetector computed tomography using an automatic exposure control system (MDCT-AEC) in children with foreign body aspiration (FBA). The results showed that mu Sv-WV-CT at a lower radiation dose had similar diagnostic performance to MDCT-AEC.