New Study Further Validates PECARN Rule for Pediatric Blunt Torso Trauma
- Published March 31, 2025
A recent study from the UC Davis School of Medicine provides new evidence supporting the accuracy and clinical value of the PECARN (Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network) blunt torso trauma rule, an important clinical decision tool in pediatric emergency care. This study strengthens confidence in the rule’s ability to help health care providers safely identify children at very low risk for serious internal injuries following blunt torso trauma—while reducing the use of unnecessary CT scans.
PECARN Rule: A Trusted Tool for Pediatric Trauma Assessment
The PECARN blunt torso trauma rule was developed to guide clinicians in determining which pediatric patients with blunt trauma to the torso are at low risk for intra-abdominal injury requiring acute intervention. When applied correctly, it can significantly reduce radiation exposure by avoiding unnecessary abdominal CT imaging.
While the rule had already been validated, there were questions around the risk associated when only one or two criteria were present. This new research set out to investigate that gray area.
Study Highlights: Very Low Risk Confirmed with 1–2 PECARN Criteria
The UC Davis study found that even when one or two PECARN variables were present, the risk of significant internal injury remained very low. This further validates that the rule is not only clinically reliable, but also that it can be used confidently by emergency clinicians when making decisions about imaging in children with blunt abdominal trauma.
These findings are critical in:
- Reinforcing the safety of PECARN rule use in everyday pediatric emergency practice
- Supporting evidence-based reduction of CT scans, minimizing radiation risks
- Empowering providers to make accurate decisions based on clinical criteria
What This Means for Pediatric Emergency Care
Reducing exposure to radiation—especially in children—is crucial. The PECARN blunt torso trauma rule provides a clear, data-backed method for identifying which patients can safely avoid a CT scan, without missing clinically important injuries.
Emergency departments and trauma centers are encouraged to integrate this rule into trauma protocols and provider training, ensuring the safest and most effective care for children.
Access the PECARN Rule
You can explore the PECARN blunt torso trauma rule and apply it in clinical settings via MDCalc, a trusted platform for clinical decision support.