Full-body x-ray imaging to facilitate triage: a potential aid in high-volume emergency departments

S P Whiley, H Alves, S Grace, S P Whiley, H Alves, S Grace

Abstract

The levels of traumatic injury seen in South African emergency departments (EDs) are epidemic. This is coupled with a severe lack of resources and adequately trained emergency staff. The Lodox Statscan (LS) is an X-ray scanner capable of producing rapid, low-dose, and full-body X-ray images. In this paper, a new trauma protocol-the Johannesburg trauma protocol-that implements LS scanning on entry to the ED as a triage tool is reported. A case study illustrating the use of LS to triage 63 patients in a single Saturday shift at a level 1 Trauma Centre is also presented. Because of the ability to rapidly and safely provide X-ray imaging information to support clinical decision making, the LS could be a useful tool to aid in resource allocation to improve treatment of the high levels of trauma patients that present to South African EDs daily.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
The Lodox Statscan (LS).
Figure 2
Figure 2
Flowchart outlining the Johannesburg trauma protocol.
Figure 3
Figure 3
(a) LS X-ray of a paediatric patient showing fractured tibia/fibula and verification of chest intubation and (b) LS of an adult male showing gunshot wound to the abdomen.

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Source: PubMed

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