Unlike CT, Conventional X-Rays Do Not Detect Most Pelvic Injuries

Computed tomography (CT) scans are better than standard radiography for the detection of pelvic fractures, according to recent findings.

CT scanning combines dedicated X-ray equipment with sophisticated computers to produce multiple images of pictures of the inside of the body. The study, performed at Allegheny General Hospital (Pittsburgh, PA, USA), included 132 patients with pelvic fractures who were evaluated using standard X-rays (with special views to detect pelvic fractures) and CT. "Based on the results of our retrospective study, pelvic X-rays, especially special views, failed to identify 48% of pelvic injuries and also failed to add any significant value to patient care,” said Zulfiqar Ali, M.D., lead author of the study.

The study findings were presented May 7, 2010, at the American Roentgen Ray Society (ARRS) 2010 annual meeting in San Diego, CA, USA.

"Most orthopedic surgeons order special, additional X-ray views after a CT scan has been performed and a diagnosis confirmed. We recommend that these additional views be eliminated since pelvic CT, with multiplanar and three-dimensional reconstructed images, is sufficient for complete evaluation of suspected pelvic injuries,” said Dr. Ali. "Eliminating these extra pelvic X-rays altogether in cases of suspected pelvic injury can reduce the overall radiation dose to patients; reduce patient discomfort and pain by eliminating unnecessary movements in an injured patient; reduce cost; and ultimately provide faster service to patients.”

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Allegheny General Hospital