| Popis: |
Trauma is a leading cause of death globally. Early and accurate diagnosis in the emergency department (ED) is crucial in maximizing health outcomes for trauma patients. The utilization of Computed Tomography (CT), owing to its superior imaging capabilities and rapid scanning speeds, has significantly increased in recent years in the initial assessment of these patients. A protocol which surveys the entire head, thorax and abdomen in a single scan, fittingly named ‘Whole Body CT’ (WBCT), has been recently implemented in many centres as a way of reducing mortality and time spent in the ED/hospital. Aside from these possible advantages, the obvious risk sourced from excessive exposure to radiation makes a controversial topic. This chapter will exhibit the many facets pertaining to the viability of WBCT for trauma patients in the ED setting, with exploration of its advantages, drawbacks and implications for radiographers. |
