Evaluation of the Lower Spine after Blunt Trauma Using Abdominal Computed Tomographic Scanning Supplemented with Lateral Scanograms

Abstract

Our CT + S protocol (axial CT images plus AP and lateral scanograms) outperformed screening CLSRs in the detection of fractures of the lower spine (TLJ + LS) after blunt trauma. In addition, scanogram imaging is less dependent on body habitus and adds no additional cost or time to abdominal and pelvic CT scanning. Further study is required to determine whether CT + S can routinely replace conventional radiographs of the lower spine after blunt trauma.