Imaging in Trauma
The use of imaging modalities in trauma has evolved over recent years and provides rapid adjuncts to clinical assessment and management options for patient care. In the prehospital environment the use of point of care ultrasound has been widely adopted with the development of smaller handheld devices. Within the hospital setting, the early use of plain imaging using chest and pelvic X-Rays augments clinical examination and provides diagnostic information. The role of ultrasound, by performing an E-FAST (extended focussed assessment with sonography in trauma) is to identify the primary operative cavity in the hemodynamically unstable patient. In many centres computed tomography is routinely used to delineate injury profile and determine alternate treatment options including angioembolisation.
The decision to perform each imaging study will be based on factors including trauma mechanism, clinical stability, primary and secondary survey findings and access to the imaging resource. Clinicians should be aware of the use and limitations of each imaging modality within their clinical environment.
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Training resource kits
Each kit is a collection of tools and resources to guide the effective delivery of a trauma education event. The kits are designed for use in any Queensland Health facility and can be modified by the facilitator to the needs of the learner, as well as the environment in which the education is being delivered.
Case discussion
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Other resources
Other resources and tools on the topic of imaging in trauma.
- Trauma Imaging Courses - Radiopaedia