Could a simple ultrasound replace CT scans for injured kids?

NCT ID NCT03473249

Ongoing Diagnosis Sponsor: Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looks at whether contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) can accurately detect internal abdominal injuries in children under 8 who have experienced blunt trauma, such as from falls or car accidents. Researchers will compare CEUS results to standard CT scans in 120 children. If CEUS proves reliable, it could reduce children's exposure to radiation from CT scans.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Lumason (sulfur hexafluoride microbubbles for injection)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could offer a safer, radiation-free alternative to CT scans for diagnosing abdominal injuries in young children after trauma.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study with only 120 children, and results may not apply to all cases. The ultrasound may miss some injuries that CT would detect.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Abdominal Injuries

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ABDOMINAL INJURIES ACCIDENTAL FALL MOTOR VEHICLE INJURY PHYSICAL ABUSE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States

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