Computed Tomography Risk Disclosure in the Emergency Department: A Survey of Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program Leaders

INTRODUCTION: Given the potential malignancy risks associated with computed tomography (CT), some physicians are increasingly advocating for risk disclosure to patients/families. Our goal was to evaluate the practices and attitudes of pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) fellowship program leaders’ regarding CT radiation-risk disclosure. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional survey study of the United States and Canadian PEM fellowship directors and associate/assistant directors. We developed a web-based survey using a modified Dillman technique. Primary outcome was the proportion who “almost always” or “most of the time” discussed potential malignancy risks from CT prior to ordering this test. RESULTS: Of 128 physicians who received the survey, 108 (86%) responded. Of those respondents, 73%, 95% confidence interval (CI) [64–81] reported “almost always” or “most of the time” discussing potential malignancy risks when ordering a CT for infants; proportions for toddlers, school-age children, and teenagers were 72% (95% CI [63–80]), 66% (95% CI [56–75]), and 58% (95% CI [48–67]), respectively (test for trend, p=0.008). Eighty percent reported being “extremely” or “very” comfortable discussing radiation risks. Factors of “high” or “very high” importance in disclosing risks included parent request for a CT not deemed clinically indicated for 94% of respondents, and parent-initiated queries about radiation risks for 79%. If risk disclosure became mandatory, 82% favored verbal discussion over written informed consent. CONCLUSION: PEM fellowship program leaders report frequently disclosing potential malignancy risks from CT, with the frequency varying inversely with patient age. Motivating factors for discussions included parental request for a CT deemed clinically unnecessary and parental inquiry about risks.