Innovations in pediatric imaging: a scoping review of the past decade with case illustrations

BACKGROUND: Imaging plays a fundamental and increasing role in the diagnostic work-up of pediatric patients. Non-invasive imaging methods include ultrasonography, X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The importance of pediatric imaging is reflected in a large, and growing, body of scientific literature. METHODS: A scoping review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. MEDLINE (PubMed) was systematically searched in February 2025 for English-language original studies published between 2015 and 2025 in peer-reviewed journals. Additionally, illustrative cases from our institutional cohort were included to complement the review findings. RESULTS: The presented scoping review demonstrates significant technical innovations in all explored imaging modalities. In ultrasonography, trauma imaging and contrast-enhanced ultrasound beyond voiding ultrasound are major areas of progress. X-ray and CT imaging in children benefit from improved radiation protection. Photon-counting CT has been introduced into routine clinical practice. Low-field, real-time, and CT-like MRI reduces the need for sedation and makes MRI faster, safer, and more accurate while opening new application possibilities. Finally, improvements in hybrid imaging [positron emission tomography (PET)/CT and PET/MRI], new contrast agents, and the implementation of advanced artificial intelligence techniques are pushing boundaries in diagnostic imaging. CONCLUSION: A decade of on-going technical innovation has provided interesting new tools for safer, faster, and more patient-centered clinical imaging studies in children and adolescents.