Interpreting Trauma Radiographs

Overview

Traditionally the responsibility for interpreting radiographic images within an accident and emergency environment has been with medical clinicians. However, government supported expansion of the nursing role and that of diagnostic radiographers has begun to breakdown the traditional barriers of professional practice with both these groups and others now interpreting radiographic examinations as part of their normal working practice.

This course will introduce the concepts that underpin the evaluation and analysis of and develop the cognitive skills required to extract the pertinent information from radiographic images. An emphasis will be placed on those radiographic examinations typically encountered in a minor injuries unit. Discussion of common incidental findings such as pre-existing DJD and underlying processes, which might influence the presentation of an injury, is of clinical relevance and will be examined where appropriate.

Content and Modules

The course covers the following areas:

• How to extract and interpret relevant radiological information as presented in trauma radiographs of the appendicular skeleton.
• Evaluation of the mechanisms of injury which underpin the radiological manifestations.
• Appraisal of the limitations posed by radiological information.

Topics covered include:

• Mechanisms of injury
• Review of normal radiographic anatomy of the appendicular skeleton
• Radiological appearance of injury and fracture of the upper and lower limbs
• Sports injuries
• Radiological appearance of paediatric trauma
• Overview of arthropathies and bony pathology
• Medico-legal aspects of radiological interpretation
• Recording radiological information
• Methods of measuring diagnostic accuracy

Further Information