Barriers and Facilitators of CT Scan Reduction in the Workup of Pediatric Appendicitis: A Pediatric Surgical Quality Collaborative Qualitative Study

Qualitative study of 13 hospitals identifies four key factors distinguishing low CT utilizers from high utilizers in pediatric appendicitis workup: ultrasound/MRI resource availability, adherence to imaging protocols, interdepartmental collaboration culture, and presence of radiation reduction champions. Findings provide actionable targets for quality improvement initiatives aimed at reducing ionizing radiation exposure in children.