Abstract
With the advent of new and sophisticated imaging technology, one may rightfully question whether there is still a role for conventional radiography in penetrating injuries. Though there is no question that advanced imaging provides superior resolution and diagnostic capability, there is still great utility in using plain x-rays for rapid assessment of penetrating injuries. Despite the limitations of x-rays, they can provide a wealth of rapid information to those experienced in their interpretation. We have presented several scenarios in which plain film imaging can be used for the initial evaluation in the patient sustaining penetrating trauma. In conjunction with physical examination, conventional radiography allows for more judicious use of adjunctive imaging studies, which in turn can reduce health care costs and resource utilization.
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© 2012 Springer Berlin Heidelberg
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Bukur, M., Green, D.J. (2012). Plain X-Rays for Penetrating Trauma. In: Velmahos, G., Degiannis, E., Doll, D. (eds) Penetrating Trauma. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-20453-1_13
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-20453-1_13
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