Tool doesn't curb CT use for kids with head injuries

Nearly half a million kids visit ERs in the U.S. each year due to head injuries, and many of them undergo CT scans — but few of those scans show signs of traumatic brain injury. In a new paper, researchers looking for ways to curb unnecessary CT use in kids tested out a decision-making tool designed by the Mayo Clinic that walks parents through their child's care and asks what steps they'd prefer to take, whether that is a CT scan or observation at home. In a randomized trial, the tool didn't reduce the rate of CT imaging for head injuries in kids, but was tied to less health care use in the week after an ER visit.