Reformatted Visceral Protocol Helical Computed Tomographic Scanning Allows Conventional Radiographs of the Thoracic and Lumbar Spine to Be Eliminated in the Evaluation of Blunt Trauma Patients

Abstract

Data obtained from HCT scanning performed to evaluate seriously injured multiple trauma patients for thoracic and abdominal visceral injury can be reformatted to screen for thoracic and lumbar spine fractures, providing accurate screening while eliminating the time, expense, and radiation exposure associated with conventional film radiography.