[Computer assisted radiological diagnostics of arthritic joint alterations]

[Efficacy of x-ray assessment in emergency surgical departments: an evaluation in a level I trauma center]

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to ascertain the state of the art in x-ray assessment in an emergency surgical department.

METHODS

From August 2008 to February 2009 a total of 1,588 plain x-rays of 658 patients from the emergency department were included in this study. The images were assessed by 3 experienced orthopedic surgeons and 1 experienced radiologist. The incidence of missed traumatic lesions and suspected lesions and the treatment of these patients were noted.

RESULTS

A total of 136 pathological cases with 238 pathological x-ray findings were found. The mean rate of missed lesions was 13% of the assessed cases. Despite the fact that the rate of missed lesions varied from 9-25% depending on the level of experience, all patients were treated adequately. The quality of x-ray assessment improved with the level of training of the individual doctors.

CONCLUSION

The present situation is in need of improvement but it is not critical. Junior medical staff should undergo a special training in x-ray assessment.