Rebellion 21: To CT or Not to CT – PECARN, CHALICE, and CATCH Algorithms via Hilary Fairbrother, MD

In this 16-minute lecture from Rebellion in EM 2021, Dr. Hilary Fairbrother focuses on the description of PECARN, CHALICE, and CATCH algorithms with best practices for use in pediatric patients with head trauma.

Hilary Fairbrother, MD, MPH, FACEP
McGovern School of Medicine
University of Texas Health Houston
Department of Emergency Medicine
Vice Chair of Education
Houston, TX
Twitter: @hilaryfair

Objectives

1. Define and review the PECARN, CHALICE, and CATCH algorithms
2. Accurately apply and use the PECARN, CHALICE, and CATCH pediatric head injury algorithms to better utilize computerized tomography in the pediatric population

Presentation Outline

1. Pediatric head trauma epidemiology + risks of radiation
2. Definition of head trauma algorithms:
   1. PECARN
   2. CHALICE
   3. CATCH
3. Practical application of these algorithms with pearls and pitfalls
   1. Case 1 – CATCH
   2. Case 2 – CHALICE
   3. Case 3 – PECARN
4. Conclusion and recommendations for algorithm use in everyday practice

References:

1. Easter JS et al. Comparison of PECARN, CATCH, and CHALICE Rules for Children with Minor Head Injury: A Prospective Cohort Study. Ann Emerg Med 2014. PMID: 24635987
2. Babl FE et al. Accuracy of PECARN, CATCH, and CHALICE Head Injury Decision Rules in Children: A Prospective Cohort Study. Lancet 2017. PMID: 28410792

Post Peer Reviewed By: Salim R. Rezaie, MD (Twitter: @srrezaie)