Approach to Pediatric Head and Neck

Radiography

Plain films of the face have limited indications in children. They are often used as a quick screening tool for sinus disease or facial trauma. However, their sensitivity & specificity are low, particularly when the clinical suspicion is low (which is often when such studies are ordered, unfortunately).

Regarding the neck, radiographs are most useful in the initial assessments of the airway & cervical spine (both of which are discussed in separate chapters). It should be remembered that radiographs can be a useful tool in looking for lodged foreign bodies, though many ingested items (such as toys & food) will not be radiopaque.