From Idea to Impact: Getting Published in Pediatric Radiology

“We should write that up.” 

It’s a phrase every pediatric radiologist has heard — sparked by a question, a pattern, or a teaching moment in clinical practice.

But how do you turn that idea into a published paper?

And why does publishing still matter?

This is a key challenge in our field, where only about 40% of abstracts presented at pediatric radiology conferences ever become published papers. That means more than half of the work we present never becomes part of the scientific record — and never reaches the broader pediatric imaging community.

In this episode of Inside Pediatric Radiology, we break down the practical path from idea to publication — across clinical research, quality improvement, and education scholarship.

The episode also features a conversation with Dr. Geetika Khanna, Managing Editor for the Americas for Pediatric Radiology, who offers an inside look at the editorial process, what makes a strong submission, and the evolving role of medical journals.

Because publishing isn’t just a CV line — it’s how ideas move from one department to pediatric radiologists around the world.

Guests:

Dr. Geetika Khanna, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University

Pediatric Radiology Journal 

https://link.springer.com/journal/247

SPR Thomas L. Slovis Career Development Course https://myedu.spr.org/products/peer-reviewing-for-scientific-journals-why-and-how#tab-product_tab_overview

Links to topics discussed in this episode:

Meshaka R, Laidlow-Singh H, Langan D, Arthurs OJ, Shelmerdine SC. Presentation to publication: Changes in paediatric radiology research trends 2010-2016. Pediatr Radiol. 2022 Dec;52(13):2538-2548. 

Paddock M, et al: ESPR Publications Committee (consortium). The publication fate of abstracts awarded prizes at European Society of Paediatric Radiology annual scientific meetings. Pediatr Radiol. 2025 Mar;55(3):578-584. 

Debnath P, Dillman JR, Trout AT. State of original pediatric radiology research in major radiology journals other than Pediatric Radiology. Pediatr Radiol. 2025 Feb;55(2):252-258.

Kliewer MA. Writing it up: a step-by-step guide to publication for beginning investigators. AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2005 Sep;185(3):591-6.